Respiratory Therapist in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Tennessee.
Jobs (TN)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a respiratory therapist in Tennessee
To become a Respiratory Therapist in Tennessee, individuals must obtain a state license from the Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care. Key steps include completing an associate's degree from a CoARC-accredited program, passing the NBRC CRT or RRT exam, and submitting an application with a $160 fee. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and undergo a criminal background check. Tennessee offers reciprocity for applicants licensed in other states if their qualifications are considered equivalent.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Tennessee. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Tennessee requirements
| Licensing body | Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care |
| State license | Required |
| Education | Associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program |
| Exam | NBRC CRT or RRT exam ($200) |
| Application fee | $160 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age is 18. A criminal background check is required. CE must include 1 hour in patient safety and 1 hour in professional ethics per calendar year. At least 5 hours of CE must pertain to the clinical practice of respiratory care or research relating to the cardio-pulmonary system per calendar year. Applicants must submit a passport-size photo. Official transcripts must be sent directly from the educational institution to the board. Verification of all respiratory care licenses held in other states is required. Temporary licenses are available for up to one year for those who have completed their education but not yet passed the NBRC exam. Reciprocity is granted if qualifications are deemed equivalent to Tennessee's. |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleTennessee license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+12.1%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk