Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for respiratory therapist in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Registration in Respiratory Care
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,940 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 96,940, Respiratory Therapists in Massachusetts earn 20% above the national median of $80,450. Massachusetts ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$96,940Hourly estimate
$46.6120% above national median
Difference: +$16,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRespiratory Therapist Salary Ranking
#5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $96,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $83,620 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $78,760 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $103,820 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $83,250 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $83,600 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 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
Board of Registration in Respiratory Care
239 Causeway St., Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 8004140168
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $69,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $57,960 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Respiratory Therapist licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Respiratory Therapist salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in Massachusetts is 96,940. Salaries range from $74,200 (10th percentile) to $118,950 (90th percentile).
How does the Respiratory Therapist salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Respiratory Therapists in Massachusetts earn 20% above the national median of $80,450, with a state median of 96,940.
How many Respiratory Therapists work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 2,140 Respiratory Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration in Respiratory Care. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/dhpl/respiratory-care/about/.