Respiratory Therapist / Pennsylvania
2026 data Pennsylvania board official source

Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Pennsylvania data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Pennsylvania's path to respiratory therapist licensure runs through 2,068 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Pennsylvania folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $164, with renewal running $135 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.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in Pennsylvania

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,068 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$164
Renewal Fee
$135
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Pennsylvania? ▼
In Pennsylvania, the license path calls for 2068 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $164 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Pennsylvania? ▼
Certification as a respiratory therapist in Pennsylvania means clearing the state's checklist: 2068 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Pennsylvania licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Pennsylvania from another state? ▼
Respiratory Therapist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Respiratory Therapy Licensure Compact: adoption underway. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Pennsylvania licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Pennsylvania require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for respiratory therapist licensing in Pennsylvania. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in Pennsylvania? ▼
Pennsylvania ties continued respiratory therapist licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $135 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.