Idaho Respiratory Therapist Licensing Guide
License Snapshot
Processing Time
2-6 weeks
From complete application
Application Fee
$100
Renewal: $65 · Temp license available
Credential
NBRC
Required national certification
CE Required
12 hours
Every 2 years
Overview
Idaho does not participate in an interstate compact for respiratory therapy. Travelers must obtain an individual Idaho license through the endorsement process before practicing in the state, regardless of what licenses they hold elsewhere.
Endorsement Process
Idaho uses an online portal endorsement process for respiratory therapists already licensed in another state. You'll need to submit your completed application along with supporting documents and the $100 application fee.
- Submit endorsement application via Idaho board portal
- Request license verification from current state (via NBRC or direct) (can run concurrently)
- Complete any state-specific requirements (background check, etc.) (can run concurrently)
- Await board review and license issuance
License verification is handled through NBRC or direct board verification. Idaho requires verification from every state where you hold or have held a respiratory therapist license, so request verification early to avoid delays.
Background check requirements vary by applicant — confirm the current fingerprinting and screening steps with the Idaho DOPL Allied Health Advisory Board (Respiratory Therapy). Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible, since background check processing is one of the most common sources of delay.
After all components are received, the Board reviews applications on a rolling basis. Check the Idaho DOPL Allied Health Advisory Board (Respiratory Therapy) website for status updates on your application.
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Endorsement Application | $100 |
| Renewal | $65 (every 2 years) |
Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting. Many staffing agencies, including Fusion Medical Staffing, offer licensure reimbursement programs to help offset these expenses.
Temporary License
Idaho issues temporary respiratory therapy licenses, allowing respiratory therapists to begin practicing while their permanent endorsement application is being processed. For travelers, this is often the fastest path to starting an assignment.
Processing Time
Idaho respiratory therapist endorsement applications typically take 2-6 weeks to process. The timeline is subject to moderate variability depending on the completeness of your application and external factors.
In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 10-12 business days if application is complete, verification obtained same week, and no background check delays occur.
Common sources of delay:
- Idaho board processes applications sequentially; no concurrent batch processing means applications filed after monthly review cycle wait additional 2-4 weeks
- License verification from prior state can take 1-2 weeks if NBRC is not current; direct board-to-board verification slower in rural states
- Missing or incomplete continuing education documentation from previous state triggers administrative hold, adding 1-3 weeks
Idaho does not offer an expedited processing track. 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.
Continuing Education
Idaho requires 12 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for respiratory therapist license renewal.
- Traveler tip: Keep all CE documentation organized and easily accessible — Idaho may audit compliance at any time
Renewal Process
- Renewal cycle: Every 2 years — $65 via Idaho Respiratory Therapy Licensure Board portal
- Renewal timing: Transitioning to biennial licensure effective April 1, 2026 (was annual). Affected licensees should review Board News for cycle-impact details.
- Traveler tip: Track your Idaho license expiration date carefully — a lapsed license can disrupt active assignments
Official Resources
Idaho DOPL Allied Health Advisory Board (Respiratory Therapy)
Board Website·Application Portal·License Verification
Phone: (208) 334-3233
Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
Last verified: April 15, 2026. Please note that while Fusion Medical Staffing strives to provide the most current and accurate information, we cannot guarantee the completeness or timeliness of the information provided. Requirements and processes can change frequently. Healthcare professionals are strongly encouraged to verify details directly with Idaho DOPL Allied Health Advisory Board (Respiratory Therapy)'s official website.
Resources
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Breathe in through your nose, hold, and exhale through your mouth. Repeat at least twice a day, as needed.
