2026 data New York board official source

New York Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the New York data shows for Respiratory Therapists

To practice as a respiratory therapist in New York, the state licensing board requires 2,089 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 York's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $168, with renewal running $138 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

For respiratory therapists, the reciprocity picture is: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,089 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$168
Renewal Fee
$138
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in New York?
In New York, the license path calls for 2089 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $168 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in New York?
Certification as a respiratory therapist in New York means clearing the state's checklist: 2089 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New York licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to New York from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for respiratory therapists: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the New York licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does New York require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for respiratory therapist licensing in New York. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in New York?
Licensed respiratory therapists in New York must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $138.

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