Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for respiratory therapist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Medicine
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$79,600 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 79,600, Respiratory Therapists in Virginia earn 1% below the national median of $80,450. Virginia ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$79,600Hourly estimate
$38.271% below national median
Difference: -$850
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRespiratory Therapist Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $79,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $85,570 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $66,370 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $65,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $65,000 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $77,050 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 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
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Medicine
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043684600
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|---|---|---|---|
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia 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 Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Respiratory Therapist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Respiratory Therapist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in Virginia is 79,600. Salaries range from $60,830 (10th percentile) to $102,680 (90th percentile).
How does the Respiratory Therapist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Respiratory Therapists in Virginia earn 1% below the national median of $80,450, with a state median of 79,600.
How many Respiratory Therapists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 2,960 Respiratory Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Medicine. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Medicine/.