Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for respiratory therapist in Louisiana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Respiratory Therapist in Louisiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$70,140 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 70,140, Respiratory Therapists in Louisiana earn 13% below the national median of $80,450. Louisiana ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$70,140Hourly estimate
$33.7213% below national median
Difference: -$10,310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRespiratory Therapist Salary Ranking
#41 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $70,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $67,960 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $61,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $77,550 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners
630 Camp Street, New Orleans, LA, 70130
Phone: 5045686820ext115
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $97,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $56,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Louisiana?
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 exams are required for Respiratory Therapists in Louisiana?
Louisiana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Respiratory Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Respiratory Therapist in Louisiana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Respiratory Therapist licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Respiratory Therapist salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in Louisiana is 70,140. Salaries range from $59,760 (10th percentile) to $84,540 (90th percentile).
How does the Respiratory Therapist salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Respiratory Therapists in Louisiana earn 13% below the national median of $80,450, with a state median of 70,140.
How many Respiratory Therapists work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 2,280 Respiratory Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Louisiana from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Respiratory Therapists in Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals / Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.lsbme.la.gov/licensure/acupuncturist.