How to Apply
Getting licensed as a Respiratory Therapist in California starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the CA licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the TMC & CSE Exams. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the California state board.
Requirements
Before applying for a Respiratory Therapist license in California, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. CA requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the TMC & CSE Exams is a non-negotiable requirement in California.
Fees & Costs
The initial application fee for a Respiratory Therapist license in California is approximately $225. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. CA also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in California may incur additional penalties of up to $56.
License Fee Calculator — Respiratory Therapist in California
Renewal Process
Maintaining your Respiratory Therapist license in California requires timely renewal every 2 years. CA sets the renewal fee at $150. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the California board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in CA.
License Expiry Calculator — Respiratory Therapist in CA
Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. California requires renewal every 2 years.
Additional Information
The demand for licensed Respiratory Therapist professionals in California continues to grow. CA offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in California provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Respiratory Therapist professionals in CA report high job satisfaction and competitive compensation.
Document Checklist — Respiratory Therapist
0 of 5 documents ready
Frequently Asked Questions
License Reciprocity: Can I Use My California Respiratory Therapist License in Other States?
Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.
| Destination State | Reciprocity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska (AK) | Partial | AK requires additional exam or paperwork for CA license holders. |
| Alabama (AL) | None | AL does not recognize CA Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required. |
| Arizona (AZ) | None | AZ does not recognize CA Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required. |
| Arkansas (AR) | Partial | AR requires additional exam or paperwork for CA license holders. |
| Colorado (CO) | Partial | CO requires additional exam or paperwork for CA license holders. |
| Delaware (DE) | None | DE does not recognize CA Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required. |
| Florida (FL) | Full | FL accepts CA Respiratory Therapist license via reciprocity agreement. |
| Iowa (IA) | Full | IA accepts CA Respiratory Therapist license via reciprocity agreement. |
Where to File Locally in California
Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.
Sacramento
1625 N Market Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 574-7170
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Los Angeles
320 W 4th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 897-3722
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
San Francisco
455 Golden Gate Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 557-3261
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
San Diego
1350 Front St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 525-4235
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
San Jose
100 Paseo De San Antonio, San Jose, CA 95113
(408) 277-4102
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official California Resources
Always verify requirements directly with the California state board. Regulations may change.
California Licensing Board
https://www.dca.ca.gov
Contact Phone
(800) 952-5210
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US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.