Washington DC Respiratory Therapist Licensing Guide

Washington DC Respiratory Therapist License Overview

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

How to Get a Washington DC Respiratory Therapist License by Endorsement

Washington DC 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 $254 application fee.

1. Submit endorsement application via Washington DC 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 DC Health - Board of Respiratory Care. Where fingerprinting applies, submit your authorization as early as possible.

Check the DC Health - Board of Respiratory Care website for status updates on your application.

Washington DC Respiratory Therapist License Fees

Renewal: from our records; confirm with the board.

Travelers should factor these licensing costs into their assignment budgeting.

Washington DC Temporary Respiratory Therapist License

We have not found a temporary license option on the DC Health - Board of Respiratory Care's site. Confirm with the board before planning a start date.

Washington DC Respiratory Therapist License Processing Time

Washington DC does not publish a standard processing time for Respiratory Therapist endorsement applications.

Common sources of delay:

• The board meets only quarterly, on the second Monday, and meeting dates can change
• No temporary license available means assignment cannot start until permanent license is fully issued, eliminating any bridge-work option
• NBRC verification requests to candidate's home state board can add 2-4 weeks if not expedited proactively
• DC does not offer expedited processing; standard 4-12 week range applies uniformly regardless of urgency

We have not found an expedited processing option on the DC Health - Board of Respiratory Care'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.

Washington DC Respiratory Therapist Continuing Education

Washington DC requires 16 contact hours of continuing education every 2 years for Respiratory Therapist license renewal (from our records; confirm with the board).

• Mandatory topics: must maintain valid NBRC national certification
• First renewal: New licensees may qualify for reduced CE requirements during their first renewal cycle

Washington DC Respiratory Therapist License Renewal

• Renewal cycle: Every 2 years — $169 via DC Health - Board of Respiratory Care portal
• Renewal timing: Historically every 2 years expiring January 31 of odd-numbered years; effective June 16, 2024, DC Health is transitioning all professional licenses to a birth-month renewal cycle — credentials issued or renewed on or after June 16, 2024 expire on the last day of the holder's birth month (odd or even year matching birth year parity).
• CE topics: must maintain valid NBRC national certification
• Late penalty: $85 late fee after January 31 (in addition to $169 renewal fee)

Washington DC Licensing Board and Resources

DC Health - Board of Respiratory Care

Board Website · Application Portal

Phone: (877) 672-2174

Email: [email protected]