Respiratory Therapist Care Practitioner License in Pennsylvania
Quick Answer
To become a licensed respiratory care practitioner in Pennsylvania, you need a degree and must pass the NBRC exam. PA offers both a license and a certificate pathway. Contact the PA licensing authority for current fees.
- Exam
- NBRC TMC
- Timeline
- 2-4 months after program completion
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
Respiratory Therapist Care Practitioner license in Pennsylvania
Respiratory Therapist Care Practitioner Salary in Pennsylvania
Entry Level
$61,440
Median
$76,160
Experienced
$97,490
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 Care Practitioner in Pennsylvania.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NBRC TMC
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 months after program completion.
Respiratory Therapist Care Practitioner Licensing in Pennsylvania: What to Know
Pennsylvania offers both a respiratory therapist care practitioner license and a respiratory care practitioner certificate. The certificate empowers the holder to practice respiratory care under supervision of a medical doctor. Both require a degree, third-party exam, and continuing education. There are no criminal record prohibitions. Fee details are not provided in the COS data.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Respiratory Therapist Care Practitioner license in Pennsylvania?
- 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 Care Practitioner license in Pennsylvania?
- You need to pass the NBRC TMC. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Respiratory Therapist Care Practitioner requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.