How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in New Mexico – NM

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: January, 23 2010

Steps to Become a Respiratory Therapist in New Mexico

1. First the applicant must graduate from a CAAHEP/CoARC accredited education program for respiratory therapy.  This is required in order to sit for the CRT examination.  Transcripts must be submitted along with the application for licensure as a respiratory therapist to the state of New Mexico.


2. Successfully earn a passing score on the CRT examination, administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care, Inc.  This score will need to be submitted to the state of New Mexico along with the application for licensure as a respiratory therapist.
3. Successfully complete the application for licensure as a respiratory therapist with the State of New Mexico Respiratory Care Advisory Board.  Along with the application, the applicant must submit the following:
1. Student transcripts from the CAAHEP/CoARC accredited respiratory therapy education program
2. Verification of a passing score on the CRT examination
3. A copy of the applicant’s birth certificate
4. A passport-type photograph of the applicant
5. A $150 licensure fee, payable to the Respiratory Care Advisory Board by check or money order

Additionally, if the applicant is not a new graduate, but rather a professional who has been practicing outside the state of New Mexico, the applicant must also provide a verification of licensure in all states in which the applicant has ever been licensed, sent directly from the state, as well as a resume indicating employment history for the applicant over the previous five years.

Please refer to the State of New Mexico Respiratory Care Advisory Board for all required forms, as well as for further details.

Respiratory Care Advisory Board
2550 Cerrillos Road
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505
(505) 476-4965
RespiratoryCareBd@state.nm.us