Respiratory Therapist / New Jersey
2026 data New Jersey board official source

New Jersey Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the New Jersey data shows for Respiratory Therapists

To practice as a respiratory therapist in New Jersey, the state licensing board requires 2,149 documented education or training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under New Jersey's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

The initial price tag is $180, and renewal costs $147 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, respiratory therapists should know: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,149 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$180
Renewal Fee
$147
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Respiratory Therapist All New Jersey licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New Jersey licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in New Jersey? ▼
In New Jersey, the license path calls for 2149 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $180 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in New Jersey? ▼
Certification as a respiratory therapist in New Jersey means clearing the state's checklist: 2149 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New Jersey licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to New Jersey from another state? ▼
For respiratory therapists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the New Jersey licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does New Jersey require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
Yes, New Jersey requires a criminal background check as part of the respiratory therapist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in New Jersey? ▼
New Jersey ties continued respiratory therapist licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $147 renewal fee.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.