Respiratory Therapist Credentials: CRT and RRT
There are two levels of respiratory therapist: the certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and the registered respiratory therapist (RRT).
Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs)
Respiratory therapists are required to complete either a two-year associate’s degree or a four-year baccalaureate degree. Upon graduation they are eligible to take a national voluntary multiple choice examination that, upon passing, leads to the credential Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT).
Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs)
Once the respiratory therapist has successfully passed the multiple choice examination, he/she is eligible to take a national voluntary clinical simulation examination that leads to the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.
For more information about obtaining these credentials, visit the National Board for Respiratory Care.