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Respiratory Therapist License in Wisconsin

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Respiratory Therapist license in WI. 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 Wisconsin.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Respiratory Therapist training program in Wisconsin.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your WI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the TMC & CSE Exams.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

To obtain your Respiratory Therapist license in Wisconsin, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Wisconsin requires all applicants to pass the TMC & CSE Exams before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in WI is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

To qualify for Respiratory Therapist licensure in Wisconsin, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. WI 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 Wisconsin regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Respiratory Therapist license in Wisconsin requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in WI is $225, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $375 total when accounting for all associated costs in Wisconsin.

License Fee Calculator — Respiratory Therapist in Wisconsin

Base License Fee$225
Estimated Total$225

Renewal Process

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

License Expiry Calculator — Respiratory Therapist in WI

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

Additional Information

Working as a Respiratory Therapist in Wisconsin offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. WI has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Wisconsin also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Respiratory Therapist professionals.

Document Checklist — Respiratory Therapist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Wisconsin 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 WI Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for WI license holders.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts WI Respiratory Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts WI Respiratory Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts WI Respiratory Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for WI license holders.
California (CA) FullCA accepts WI Respiratory Therapist license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize WI Respiratory Therapist license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Wisconsin

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

Madison

4822 Madison Yards Way, Madison, WI 53705

(608) 266-2112

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Milwaukee

200 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

(414) 286-2200

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Green Bay

100 N Jefferson St, Green Bay, WI 54301

(920) 448-3000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Kenosha

625 52nd St, Kenosha, WI 53140

(262) 653-4000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Racine

730 Washington Ave, Racine, WI 53403

(262) 636-9151

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Wisconsin Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Wisconsin 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.