Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for respiratory therapist in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Respiratory Therapist in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,310 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#17 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of 81,310, Respiratory Therapists in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $80,450. Illinois ranks #17 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$81,310Hourly estimate
$39.091% above national median
Difference: +$860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRespiratory Therapist Salary Ranking
#17 of 50 statesfor Respiratory Therapist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 103,820 |
| #2 | California | 102,120 |
| #3 | New Jersey | 98,020 |
| #4 | Washington | 97,150 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | 96,940 |
Nearby States Comparison
Respiratory Therapist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $81,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $82,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $68,790 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $73,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $65,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $77,820 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $67,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $66,940 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,430 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Respiratory Therapist salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in Illinois is 81,310. Salaries range from $63,430 (10th percentile) to $97,310 (90th percentile).
How does the Respiratory Therapist salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Respiratory Therapists in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $80,450, with a state median of 81,310.
How many Respiratory Therapists work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 5,450 Respiratory Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Respiratory Therapists in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.