Respiratory Therapist / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia 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 Virginia data shows for Respiratory Therapists

Virginia's path to respiratory therapist licensure runs through 1,905 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. Virginia folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate Degree".

Budget $131 to get started, plus $111 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. 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 Virginia

Education / Training Hours
Associate Degree
1,905 hours
Exam Requirement
TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice)
Required
Initial License Fee
$131
Renewal Fee
$111
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 Virginia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Respiratory Therapist in Virginia? ▼
In Virginia, the license path calls for 1905 education/training hours, a passing score on TMC Exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice), and a $131 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Respiratory Therapist in Virginia? ▼
Certification as a respiratory therapist in Virginia means clearing the state's checklist: 1905 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Virginia licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Virginia 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 Virginia licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Virginia require a background check for Respiratory Therapist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the respiratory therapist licensing process in Virginia. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Respiratory Therapist in Virginia? ▼
Licensed respiratory therapists in Virginia must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $111.

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.