Colorado Respiratory Therapist Licensing Guide

Colorado Respiratory Therapist License Overview

We have not found an interstate compact that covers Respiratory Therapists in Colorado. Plan on meeting Colorado's own requirements before you practice there.

How to Get a Colorado Respiratory Therapist License by Endorsement

Colorado uses an online application endorsement process for Respiratory Therapists already licensed in another state. You'll need to submit your completed application along with supporting documents and the $21 application fee.

1. Submit the initial license application online through DPO Online Services
2. Request license verification from current state (via NBRC or direct) (can run concurrently)
3. Complete any state-specific requirements (background check, etc.) (can run concurrently)
4. Await board review and license issuance

License verification is handled through NBRC or direct board verification. Request verification early so your application is not delayed.

Confirm the current fingerprinting and background check steps with the Colorado Office of Respiratory Therapy Licensure (Division of Professions and Occupations, DORA). Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Colorado Office of Respiratory Therapy Licensure (Division of Professions and Occupations, DORA) website for status updates on your application.

Colorado Respiratory Therapist License Fees

Endorsement application and renewal: from our records; confirm with the board.

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Colorado Temporary Respiratory Therapist License

We have not found a temporary license option on the Colorado Office of Respiratory Therapy Licensure's site. Confirm with the board before planning a start date.

Colorado Respiratory Therapist License Processing Time

Colorado Respiratory Therapist endorsement applications typically take 2-4 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 10-12 days if all documents are submitted perfectly and current state verification returns immediately.

Common sources of delay:

• Board processes applications sequentially; no concurrent review of verification requests means verification delays directly extend timeline
• Email-based communication with board creates bottlenecks if applicant or current state fails to respond promptly to board inquiries
• NBRC verification routing can add 1-2 weeks if current state board is slow to respond to verification requests

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Colorado Office of Respiratory Therapy Licensure's site. The best way to minimize your wait time is to ensure all application components — fingerprints, verification, and any required exams — are completed before or immediately after submitting your application.

Colorado Respiratory Therapist Continuing Education

Colorado does not require continuing education hours for Respiratory Therapist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

• Mandatory topics: no mandatory continuing education requirements

Colorado Respiratory Therapist License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years, expiring by August 31st of even-numbered years — $21 via the DPO Online Services Renewal System
• Renewal window: Opens approximately 4-5 weeks prior to August 31 expiration in even-numbered years

Colorado Licensing Board and Resources

Colorado Office of Respiratory Therapy Licensure (Division of Professions and Occupations, DORA)

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification

Phone: (303) 894-7800

Email: [email protected]