LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST License in Tennessee
Quick Answer
To become a licensed respiratory therapist in Tennessee, complete an AMA-approved program and pass the NBRC exam at either CRT or RRT level. Tennessee licenses three tiers: RRT, CRT, and respiratory care assistant. Renewal is every two years.
- Exam
- NBRC RRT (Advanced Practice) or CRT (Entry-Level) Exam
- Timeline
- 2-4 months after program completion
- Renewal
- Every Biennial
Requirements
LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST registration in Tennessee
LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST Salary in Tennessee
Entry Level
$51,840
Median
$65,000
Experienced
$80,940
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST in Tennessee.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NBRC RRT (Advanced Practice) or CRT (Entry-Level) Exam
- 3
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 4
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 months after program completion.
LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST Licensing in Tennessee: What to Know
Tennessee offers three levels of respiratory care licensure: Licensed Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), Licensed Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT), and Licensed Respiratory Care Assistant. For RRT: must complete an AMA-approved respiratory care program and pass the NBRC advanced practice examination to obtain the RRT credential. For CRT: must obtain NBRC entry-level certification (CRT credential). RRTs may assume primary clinical responsibility and exercise considerable independent clinical judgment, while CRTs work with well-defined therapeutic techniques. Renewal is every two years. Fee information is not provided in the COS data.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST license in Tennessee?
- The process typically takes 2-4 months after program completion, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST license in Tennessee?
- You need to pass the NBRC RRT (Advanced Practice) or CRT (Entry-Level) Exam. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare LICENSED REGISTERED RESPIRATORY THERAPIST requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.