Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist Licensing Guide

Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist License Overview

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

How to Get a Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist License by Endorsement

Pennsylvania 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 $30 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Pennsylvania board portal
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 Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine (Respiratory Care Program). Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine (Respiratory Care Program) website for status updates on your application.

Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist License Fees

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Pennsylvania Temporary Respiratory Therapist License

Pennsylvania issues temporary respiratory therapy licenses, allowing Respiratory Therapists to begin practicing while their permanent endorsement application is being processed.

Duration: 12 months, plus any additional period the Board specially determines; the permit expires if the holder fails the entry level credentialing examination.

Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist License Processing Time

Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist endorsement applications typically take 4-6 weeks to process.

In the best-case scenario, processing can be as fast as 3 weeks.

Common sources of delay:

• Board processes applications in batches; submitting after the monthly review cutoff adds 4-6 week wait
• NBRC verification requests can take 1-2 weeks if the applicant's home state requires manual board-to-board confirmation
• Incomplete applications requiring resubmission (missing CE documentation, unclear license history) create 2-3 week delays

We have not found an expedited processing option on the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine'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.

Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist Continuing Education

Pennsylvania requires 30 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for Respiratory Therapist license renewal.

• First renewal: New licensees may qualify for reduced CE requirements during their first renewal cycle

Pennsylvania Respiratory Therapist License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years, expiring by December 31st of even-numbered years — $25
• Late penalty: $5 per month (or part of a month) of practice beyond the renewal date, in addition to the renewal fee

Pennsylvania Licensing Board and Resources

Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine (Respiratory Care Program)

Board Website · Application Portal · License Verification

Phone: 833-367-2762

Email: [email protected]