LicenseCompass

Respiratory Therapist License in Arkansas

Quick Answer

To become a licensed respiratory therapist in Arkansas, you must complete an approved respiratory care program, pass the CRT exam, and complete a background check. The application fee is $75, with $40 annual renewal. Total initial cost is approximately $110.

Exam
NBRC CRT Exam
Total Cost
$110 (est.)
Timeline
2-4 months after program completion
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Annual

Requirements

Respiratory Therapist license in Arkansas

gold
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
Background check required
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
A temporary license is available to military and spouses until formal license approval

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
$40
Total Estimated Cost
$110

Licensing Agency

Arkansas Department of Health~Arkansas State Medical Board

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Respiratory Therapist license in Arkansas. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$75
Total Estimated Cost$75

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Arkansas licensing board.

Respiratory Therapist Salary in Arkansas

Entry Level

$52,470

Median

$67,960

Experienced

$82,850

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Respiratory Therapist in Arkansas.

  1. 1

    Submit Background Check

    Background check required

  2. 2

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NBRC CRT Exam

  3. 3

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$75.

  4. 4

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 2-4 months after program completion.

Respiratory Therapist Licensing in Arkansas: What to Know

Arkansas provides exceptionally detailed requirements: applicants must be at least 18, of good moral character, a high school graduate, and have completed an approved respiratory care educational program. The CRT exam is required. Fees are explicitly listed: $75 application fee, $35 temporary license fee, $40 annual renewal, and $10 late renewal. A criminal background check is required. Arkansas offers temporary licenses for military personnel and spouses until formal license approval. The Arkansas State Medical Board under the Department of Health oversees licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Respiratory Therapist license cost in Arkansas?
The estimated total cost is $110, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Respiratory Therapist license in Arkansas?
The process typically takes 2-4 months after program completion, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Respiratory Therapist license in Arkansas?
You need to pass the NBRC CRT Exam. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.