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Respiratory Therapist License in Illinois

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Respiratory Therapist license in IL. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$225

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

TMC & CSE Exams

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Respiratory Therapist license in Illinois.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Respiratory Therapist training program in Illinois.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your IL application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the TMC & CSE Exams.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Illinois licensing board and pay the $225 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in IL. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

The path to becoming a licensed Respiratory Therapist in Illinois involves several key steps. First, complete an approved education program recognized by IL. Next, prepare for and successfully pass the TMC & CSE Exams. Finally, gather your documentation and submit your license application through the Illinois state licensing portal.

Requirements

To qualify for Respiratory Therapist licensure in Illinois, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. IL mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the TMC & CSE Exams, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Illinois regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Illinois sets the Respiratory Therapist license application fee at $225. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in IL. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in Illinois typically ranges from $225 to $425.

License Fee Calculator — Respiratory Therapist in Illinois

Base License Fee$225
Estimated Total$225

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Respiratory Therapist license in Illinois requires timely renewal every 2 years. IL sets the renewal fee at $150. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the Illinois board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in IL.

License Expiry Calculator — Respiratory Therapist in IL

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Illinois requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Illinois takes professional licensing seriously, and the Respiratory Therapist field is no exception. The state board in IL regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Respiratory Therapist in Illinois, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The IL licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Respiratory Therapist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Illinois Respiratory Therapist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize IL Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize IL Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for IL license holders.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize IL Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize IL Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize IL Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for IL license holders.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts IL Respiratory Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Illinois

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Chicago

100 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

(312) 814-4500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Springfield

320 W Washington St, Springfield, IL 62786

(217) 785-0800

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Rockford

425 E State St, Rockford, IL 61104

(815) 987-5600

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Peoria

419 NE Jefferson Ave, Peoria, IL 61603

(309) 671-3000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Naperville

400 S Eagle St, Naperville, IL 60540

(630) 420-6111

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Illinois Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Illinois state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

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.