LicenseCompass

Respiratory Care Practitioner License in California

Quick Answer

To become a licensed respiratory care practitioner in California, apply to the Respiratory Care Board with a $300 application fee. You must complete an accredited respiratory care program. Processing takes 2-6 weeks. Biennial renewal is $330.

Exam
NBRC TMC
Total Cost
$300 (est.)
Timeline
2-6 weeks processing after application
Renewal
Every Biennial (24 months)

Requirements

Respiratory Care Practitioner license in California

gold
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$300
Renewal Fee
$330
Total Estimated Cost
$300

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Respiratory Care Board of California

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Respiratory Care Practitioner license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$300
Total Estimated Cost$300

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

Respiratory Care Practitioner Salary in California

Entry Level

$78,150

Median

$102,120

Experienced

$138,000

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 Care Practitioner in California.

  1. 1

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$300.

  2. 2

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 2-6 weeks processing after application.

Respiratory Care Practitioner Licensing in California: What to Know

California provides detailed information through the Respiratory Care Board of California under the Department of Consumer Affairs. The application fee is $300, and the initial license period is 13-24 months depending on issuing month and birth month. Renewal is $330 biennially. Daily computerized testing is available throughout California at numerous exam locations. Students must complete clinical practice as part of their structured curriculum. California is governed by Business and Professions Code Section 3700 et seq. The average processing time is 2-6 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Respiratory Care Practitioner license cost in California?
The estimated total cost is $300, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Respiratory Care Practitioner license in California?
The process typically takes 2-6 weeks processing after application, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Respiratory Care Practitioner license in California?
You need to pass the NBRC TMC. N/A

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