Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for respiratory therapist in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Respiratory Therapist in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Medical Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,550 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#30 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 Texas
With a median salary of 77,550, Respiratory Therapists in Texas earn 4% below the national median of $80,450. Texas ranks #30 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$77,550Hourly estimate
$37.284% below national median
Difference: -$2,900
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRespiratory Therapist Salary Ranking
#30 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $77,550 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $76,080 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $67,960 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $70,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $66,460 | Degree required | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 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. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 54 | 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
Texas Medical Board
PO Box 2029, Austin, TX, 78768-2029
Phone: 5123057010
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $87,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $42,270 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Respiratory Therapists.
What education do you need to become a Respiratory Therapist in Texas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Respiratory Therapist licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Respiratory Therapist salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in Texas is 77,550. Salaries range from $61,130 (10th percentile) to $94,640 (90th percentile).
How does the Respiratory Therapist salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Respiratory Therapists in Texas earn 4% below the national median of $80,450, with a state median of 77,550.
How many Respiratory Therapists work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 11,860 Respiratory Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Medical Board. Review agency details at http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/licensing.