2026 data Ohio board official source

Ohio Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Ohio data shows for Respiratory Therapists

To practice as a respiratory therapist in Ohio, the state licensing board requires 2,014 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 Ohio's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $153, with renewal running $127 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

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

Licensing Requirements in Ohio

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,014 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$153
Renewal Fee
$127
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 Ohio licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Ohio?
Ohio's requirements cover 2014 hours of education or training, the TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice) exam, and an initial fee of $153. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Ohio?
Ohio licenses respiratory therapists who complete its requirements (2014 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Ohio licensing board.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Ohio from another state?
Reciprocity for respiratory therapists nationally works like this: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Ohio. Verify the specifics with the Ohio licensing board.
Does Ohio require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing?
Yes, Ohio 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 Ohio?
Licensed respiratory therapists in Ohio must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $127.

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