Medical
Medical

NBRC CRT

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National Board for Respiratory Care: Certified Respiratory Therapist

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Princenton UniversityETH ZurichColumbia UGroningemErasmusErasmus2Erasmus3
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NBRC CRT Certification Exam

General Information

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.

Exam Format

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.

Candidate Requirements

Eligibility for the NBRC CRT exam requires candidates to meet one of several pathways:

Pathway 1
  • Age 18 or older
  • Graduate from a CoARC-accredited respiratory therapy program with an associate degree
Pathway 2
  • CRT for at least four years
  • 62 semester hours of college credit in specified subjects
Pathway 3
  • CRT for at least two years
  • Associate degree from an accredited entry-level respiratory care program
Pathway 4
  • CRT for at least two years
  • Baccalaureate degree in a non-respiratory care field
  • 62 semester hours of college credit in specified subjects

Note: The CRT-to-Registry Admission Policy will be phased out by December 31, 2026. More information is available on the NBRC website.

Exam Cost

The NBRC CRT exam cost is uniform for all candidates.

How to Register

To register for the NBRC CRT exam:

  1. Ensure you meet eligibility criteria.
  2. Submit your application and exam fee to the NBRC.
  3. Schedule your exam at a designated testing center after approval.

What to Bring to the 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.

NBRC CRT exam

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Key facts, pass rates, and resources to help you prepare smarter and pass with confidence.

The TMC (qualifying exam for the CRT and RRT) has two cut scores

Official Exam Information

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Comprehensive NBRC CRT Preparation Guide

Study Materials and Resources

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.

Practice Tests and Question Banks

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.

Study Timeline

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.

Key Topics to Focus On

The NBRC CRT exam assesses candidates across three primary domains:

  • Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations: 31%
  • Troubleshooting and Quality Control of Equipment, and Infection Control: 20%
  • Initiation and Modification of Interventions: 49%

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.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

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.

SimplyTests NBRC CRT App

The SimplyTests NBRC CRT app is a valuable tool for exam preparation, offering:

  • Over 1000 practice questions spanning all exam domains
  • Adaptive quizzes that adjust difficulty based on performance
  • Progress tracking with detailed analytics and module mastery scores
  • Offline mode for studying on-the-go
  • Exam simulators that replicate real test conditions
  • Gamified streaks to maintain motivation

Users report a 20-30% improvement in pass rates, thanks to the app's comprehensive features and consistent practice opportunities.

Success Tips

To maximize success on the NBRC CRT exam, consider these strategies:

  • Engage with community features for peer support and shared learning experiences.
  • Develop test-taking strategies, such as understanding question formats and practicing time management.
  • Utilize the app's analytics to track progress and identify areas that require additional focus.
  • Stay motivated through gamified elements and consistent practice sessions.

These approaches can enhance preparation, build confidence, and lead to successful certification.

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Frequently asked questions

What is NBRC CRT certification?
The NBRC CRT certification is a credential awarded by the National Board for Respiratory Care to individuals who meet specific education and examination requirements, demonstrating competency in respiratory therapy.
What is the exam format?
How much does the exam cost?
What are the eligibility requirements?
How do I register for the exam?
What is the passing score?
What study resources are available?
What are the career benefits of CRT certification?