Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for respiratory therapist in Montana, 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 Montana
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 Respiratory Care Practitioners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$80,950 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 Montana
With a median salary of 80,950, Respiratory Therapists in Montana earn 1% above the national median of $80,450. Montana ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$80,950Hourly estimate
$38.921% above national median
Difference: +$500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRespiratory Therapist Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $80,950 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $76,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $64,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $75,900 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $75,510 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 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 Respiratory Care Practitioners
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412369
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana 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 Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Respiratory Therapist licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Respiratory Therapist salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in Montana is 80,950. Salaries range from $61,380 (10th percentile) to $94,130 (90th percentile).
How does the Respiratory Therapist salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Respiratory Therapists in Montana earn 1% above the national median of $80,450, with a state median of 80,950.
How many Respiratory Therapists work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 390 Respiratory Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Respiratory Care Practitioners. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/rcp.