Respiratory Care: FAQs

Q: What do I need to get a NM Respiratory Care Practitioner’s license?

Submit a completed application with the required fee and copies of all items listed in the checklist of the application.

The board accepts two of the NBRC’s exams as a qualification standard for licensure in New Mexico:

  • Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
  • Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) only if licensed in New Mexico or another U.S. jurisdiction prior to January 1, 2018
Q: How long does it take to get a license?

Applications with all required information are processed within 3 to 5 business days.

Q: How do I renew my license?

All licensed Respiratory Care Practitioners MUST renew their license by September 30,2025. License renewals will be online and open on August 15, 2025. Register here NM-PLUS to be prepared to renew.

What if I missed the renewal deadline (September 30, 2023)?

If you missed the deadline, but still want to renew, you may do so by December 31, 2023. You will pay a reactivation fee.

Q: How do I reactivate my expired or lapsed license?
  • If you do not renew your license by the end of the expiration year, currently 2023, your license is expired and is now invalid. You will need to apply for a new license.
Q: Do you have Temporary Permits?
  • A student extern permit is issued to a student extern engaged by a supervisory facility to provide respiratory care for remuneration while enrolled in an approved respiratory care training and education program.
  • A graduate permit is issued to an unlicensed person who has completed an approved respiratory care training program and is employed by a supervisory facility to provide respiratory care for remuneration and who can submit proof of scheduling to take the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam.
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