How to Get Your Respiratory Therapist License in Alabama (2026)

## How to Become a Licensed Respiratory Therapist in Alabama Respiratory therapists (RTs) are essential members of clinical teams across Alabama, working in ICUs, emergency departments, pulmonology clinics, and NICUs to diagnose and treat patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders. If you're pursuing an RT career in Alabama, here is every step you need to take to earn your license and start practicing in 2026. ### Step 1: Complete an Accredited Respiratory Therapy Program Your first requirement is graduation from a program accredited by the **Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)**. Most entry-level RTs earn an **Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Respiratory Therapy**, a two-year program offered at community colleges and technical institutes across Alabama. Bachelor's programs (BSRT) are increasingly preferred by health systems for leadership and specialty roles—if you have the time and resources, a BSRT gives you a competitive edge. Coursework covers anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, mechanical ventilation, neonatal/pediatric care, pulmonary function testing, and clinical practicum hours. Alabama has CoARC-accredited programs at institutions including the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Wallace State Community College, and Jefferson State Community College. ### Step 2: Pass the NBRC Examinations All Alabama license applicants must hold a valid credential from the **National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)**. **TMC (Therapist Multiple Choice) Exam** - 160 questions over 3 hours - Passing earns you the **CRT (Certified Respiratory Therapist)** credential - Exam fee: approximately $190 **CSE (Clinical Simulation Exam)** - 22 simulated clinical cases over 4 hours - Must score at the high-cut level on the TMC to sit for the CSE - Passing earns you the **RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist)** credential - Exam fee: approximately $200 Alabama requires the **RRT** for full licensure. While a CRT may satisfy some entry-level roles, the state board and most health systems expect RRT credentials before issuing an unrestricted license or granting independent practice privileges. ### Step 3: Apply for Your Alabama License The **Alabama Board of Respiratory Therapy** oversees all RT licenses in the state. After passing your NBRC exams, you'll submit a license application that includes: - Completed application form (available on the Board's website) - Application fee of approximately **$80–$100** - Official NBRC certificate or score documentation - Background check (criminal history disclosure required) - Copy of your program transcript or CoARC verification Processing times are typically two to four weeks. Once approved, you'll receive a license number that must appear on any professional documentation you provide to employers. Some specialty lab roles—particularly pulmonary function testing—may benefit from the **CPCS (Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist)** credential, though it is not a state requirement. ### Continuing Education Requirements Alabama requires **30 continuing education (CE) hours every two years** for license renewal. Approved CE includes NBRC-recognized courses, AARC (American Association for Respiratory Care) seminars, hospital in-service education, and online programs from accredited providers. RRTs pursuing NBRC specialty credentials (such as the ACCS, NPS, or CPFT exams) can often count exam preparation courses toward their CE hours. Keep documentation of all CE activities—the Board may audit renewals and request certificates of completion. ### CRT vs. RRT: Which Do You Need in Alabama? Alabama requires the **RRT** for full, independent licensure. A CRT alone is generally not sufficient to obtain an unrestricted Alabama license. Beyond the state minimum, most Alabama hospitals require RRT credentials specifically for ICU, NICU, and procedural roles regardless of the state floor. If you currently hold a CRT, your path to full Alabama licensure runs through passing the CSE. ### Alabama Respiratory Therapist Salary Ranges Respiratory therapists in Alabama earn approximately **$55,000–$80,000 per year**, with variation based on experience, setting, and specialty. ICU and NICU-focused RTs command premium rates. **Travel RT contracts** (12-week assignments) typically pay **$40–$60 per hour** all-in and are common at Alabama facilities facing staffing shortages. RTs with advanced ECMO or CRRT specialization earn on the higher end of the range statewide. ### Top Employers for Respiratory Therapists in Alabama - **UAB Hospital (Birmingham)** — academic medical center with significant ICU and NICU volume - **Children's of Alabama (Birmingham)** — a leading pediatric hospital with high neonatal RT demand - **Huntsville Hospital** — largest hospital in north Alabama - **DCH Regional Medical Center (Tuscaloosa)** - **VA Medical Centers** (Birmingham, Tuscaloosa) - **Home health and home oxygen companies** — Lincare, Apria, and BioScrip serve Alabama's large rural population - **Sleep labs and pulmonology clinics** — PSG technologist crossover roles are available in metro markets