Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Respiratory Therapist Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for respiratory therapist in West 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 West Virginia
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
RESPIRATORY CARE
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$66,370 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#45 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 66,370, Respiratory Therapists in West Virginia earn 18% below the national median of $80,450. West Virginia ranks #45 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$66,370Hourly estimate
$31.9118% below national median
Difference: -$14,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationRespiratory Therapist Salary Ranking
#45 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $66,370 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $76,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $85,570 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $79,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $65,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $78,400 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 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
RESPIRATORY CARE
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045581382
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist in West 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 West Virginia?
West 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Respiratory Therapist licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Respiratory Therapist salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Respiratory Therapists in West Virginia is 66,370. Salaries range from $51,200 (10th percentile) to $84,670 (90th percentile).
How does the Respiratory Therapist salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Respiratory Therapists in West Virginia earn 18% below the national median of $80,450, with a state median of 66,370.
How many Respiratory Therapists work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 1,340 Respiratory Therapists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Respiratory Therapist license to West 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is RESPIRATORY CARE. Review agency details at http://www.wvborc.com/.