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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Respiratory Therapist in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Massachusetts eligibility requirements for Respiratory Therapist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Registration in Respiratory Care and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $83,620 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $78,760 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $103,820 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $83,250 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $83,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Hampshire | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Registration in Respiratory Care
239 Causeway St., Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 8004140168
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $135,250 | Degree required | 1-18 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | 2 years |
| Athletic Trainer | $63,720 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Respiratory Therapist license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.