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The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential is offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). This certification targets individuals seeking careers in respiratory therapy, focusing on patient data evaluation, equipment troubleshooting, and intervention initiation. Achieving the CRT certification can enhance professional recognition and open doors to better job opportunities. See also our NBRC RRT guide for a closely related credential.
The NBRC CRT exam, also known as the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination, consists of 160 multiple-choice questions, with 140 scored and 20 used for pretesting. Candidates have three hours to complete this computer-based test. Achieving the low cut score grants the CRT credential, while the high cut score grants both the CRT credential and eligibility for the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE), assuming other criteria are met. More details can be found on the NBRC resources page.
Eligibility for the NBRC CRT exam requires candidates to meet one of several pathways:
Note: The CRT-to-Registry Admission Policy will be phased out by December 31, 2026. More information is available on the NBRC website.
The NBRC CRT exam cost is uniform for all candidates.
To register for the NBRC CRT exam:
The NBRC partners with PSI for test administration. Candidates must present a valid government-issued photo ID. Personal items, including electronic devices, notes, and bags, are prohibited in the testing room. The center typically provides necessary materials like scratch paper. Arrive at least 30 minutes early for check-in procedures. For detailed policies, refer to the NBRC Examination Security Policy.
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Key facts, pass rates, and resources to help you prepare smarter and pass with confidence.
Official Exam Information
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For effective preparation for the NBRC CRT exam, utilize the official Candidate Handbook provided by the NBRC. This handbook offers comprehensive information about the examination process, including eligibility criteria and exam formats. Additionally, a free practice examination is available, allowing candidates to familiarize themselves with the format and types of questions they will encounter. These resources are essential for developing a structured study plan and understanding the exam's expectations.
Engaging with the NBRC's free practice test provides a simulated exam experience, helping candidates gauge their readiness. The practice test features multiple-choice questions similar to those on the actual exam, covering all relevant topics. This is particularly beneficial for identifying strengths and weaknesses, allowing candidates to focus their study efforts on areas needing improvement. By practicing under timed conditions, candidates can enhance their time management skills and boost their confidence.
While the specific number of study hours needed is not detailed in the research data, candidates are advised to develop a consistent study schedule. A recommended approach could involve dedicating 1–2 hours daily over several weeks or months, tailored to fit individual learning paces and commitments. This structured approach allows candidates to methodically cover all exam content areas, ensuring thorough preparation without last-minute cramming.
The NBRC CRT exam assesses candidates across three primary domains:
Focusing on these areas ensures a comprehensive understanding of the exam's content. Candidates should prioritize studying these domains according to their percentage weight, allocating more time to higher-weighted topics to maximize their potential score.
Obtaining the NBRC CRT certification can significantly impact career opportunities in the respiratory care field. While specific salary data is not provided in the research, industry sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that certified respiratory therapists often earn higher salaries than non-certified peers. Certification can lead to enhanced job prospects, increased earning potential, and greater professional recognition. Considering the exam cost, achieving certification is a strategic investment with a favorable return on investment, given the potential for salary increases and career advancement.
The SimplyTests NBRC CRT app is a valuable tool for exam preparation, offering:
Users report a 20-30% improvement in pass rates, thanks to the app's comprehensive features and consistent practice opportunities.
To maximize success on the NBRC CRT exam, consider these strategies:
These approaches can enhance preparation, build confidence, and lead to successful certification.
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