Respiratory Therapist / Rhode Island
2026 data Rhode Island board official source

Rhode Island Respiratory Therapist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

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

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Treats patients with breathing disorders. Requires TMC exam.

What the Rhode Island data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Rhode Island's path to respiratory therapist licensure runs through 2,243 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. Rhode Island folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Upfront cost is $199, with renewal running $161 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 Rhode Island

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
2,243 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$199
Renewal Fee
$161
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 Rhode Island licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Rhode Island licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Rhode Island? ▼
In Rhode Island, the license path calls for 2243 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $199 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Rhode Island? ▼
To become a licensed respiratory therapist in Rhode Island, you must meet the state's requirements including 2243 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Rhode Island licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Rhode Island require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
Yes, Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island? ▼
Rhode Island ties continued respiratory therapist licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $161 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.