Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination Guide

Becoming a licensed respiratory therapist is a rewarding path for those who want to help patients with cardiopulmonary conditions and work in a growing healthcare sector. The Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination, administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), ensures that candidates meet the standards of competence and safety required in clinical practice. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the exam—its requirements, application steps, coverage, preparation strategies, exam-day procedures, and post-exam processes.

Overview of the Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination

The Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination is held twice a year in the Philippines and evaluates a candidate’s theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of respiratory care. The PRC’s Board of Respiratory Therapy oversees the administration, scoring, and release of results.

Passing this exam is mandatory for anyone who wants to work as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT) in hospitals, clinics, home care facilities, and critical care units. As respiratory therapy becomes increasingly important—especially in intensive care, emergency medicine, and chronic respiratory disease management—the exam helps maintain a high standard of patient care in the field.

Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for the exam, candidates must meet the following qualifications:

Educational Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy from a CHED-recognized institution.

• Graduate should have completed all academic and clinical internship requirements.

Documentary Requirements

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Original and photocopy of Transcript of Records (with scanned picture and remarks: “For Board Examination Purposes”).

• Valid ID (government-issued).

• PSA-issued birth certificate.

• PSA-issued marriage certificate (if applicable).

• Two passport-sized photos (white background, name tag).

• For repeaters: Notice of Admission (NOA) and previous exam results (if available).

Additional Requirements for Foreign Graduates

Foreign-trained applicants must provide:

• Equivalency certificates

• Curriculum comparison

• Authentication from the Philippine embassy or consulate
  Subject to PRC evaluation and approval.

Application Process

Applying for the Respiratory Therapist Board Exam is done through the PRC’s online system. Below is a simplified step-by-step process.

Step 1: Create or Update Your PRC LERIS Account

Register at the PRC’s Licensure Examination and Registration Information System (LERIS).
Ensure that:

• Your details match your IDs.

• Your profile photo follows PRC image guidelines.

Step 2: Schedule Your Examination

Once logged in:

• Choose Respiratory Therapist as your examination type.

• Select your preferred testing location.

• Choose your exam date (depending on availability).

Step 3: Pay the Examination Fee

Fees typically include:

• Examination fee for Respiratory Therapy

• Online convenience fee (if applicable)

Payment options:

• Over-the-counter (PRC-cashier)

• Online payment channels

• Accredited payment centers

Step 4: Submit Documents

Visit your selected PRC office on your appointment date to:

• Submit your documentary requirements

• Have your application formally assessed

Step 5: Secure Your Notice of Admission (NOA)

Your NOA serves as your official exam permit and must be brought on exam day.

Exam Schedule and Test Locations

The exam is typically scheduled twice annually:

• Mid-year (usually July or August)

• End of year (typically December)

Test locations vary each cycle but commonly include:

• Manila

• Cebu

• Davao

• Baguio

• Other designated regional centers depending on PRC announcements

Always check PRC’s official bulletins for the most accurate timelines.

Examination Coverage

The Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination tests comprehensive knowledge in respiratory therapy. The major subject categories include:

1. Patient Assessment

• History taking

• Cardiopulmonary assessment

• Interpretation of laboratory data

• Respiratory function tests

• Chest auscultation and imaging interpretation

2. Pathophysiology of Respiratory and Related Disorders

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Asthma

• Pneumonia

• Tuberculosis

• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)

• Cardiopulmonary diseases affecting breathing

3. Respiratory Care Techniques and Procedures

• Oxygen therapy

• Aerosol and humidity therapy

• Chest physiotherapy

• Airway management (intubation assistance, suctioning)

• Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) and mechanical ventilation

4. Mechanical Ventilation and Critical Care

• Ventilator setup, modes, and troubleshooting

• Hemodynamic monitoring

• Emergency procedures

• Neonatal and pediatric ventilation

5. Equipment Handling and Maintenance

• Ventilators

• Nebulizers

• Oxygen delivery systems

• Humidifiers and airway clearance devices

6. Ethics and Professional Practice

• Legal responsibilities

• Patient safety

• Communication and interdisciplinary collaboration

These topics reflect both theoretical competencies and practical clinical skills essential for safe and effective respiratory care.

Tips for Effective Exam Preparation

Success in the board exam requires a structured and strategic approach. Here are recommended preparation methods:

Create a Study Plan

Divide the topics into manageable segments and plan a timetable that covers all subjects. Allocate more time to areas you find challenging.

Use Standard Respiratory Therapy References

Recommended books include:

• Egan’s Fundamentals of Respiratory Care

• Mosby’s Respiratory Care Equipment

• Clinical Manifestations and Assessment of Respiratory Diseases

These are widely used in respiratory therapy programs and align well with exam content.

Practice with Mock Exams

Answering practice questions helps you:

• Familiarize yourself with exam format

• Improve time management

• Identify weak areas

Study Clinical Scenarios

The board exam often includes case-based questions that require clinical judgment, rather than memorization alone.

Join Group Reviews or Online Review Centers

Group discussions can help reinforce concepts, while formal review programs may provide structured guidance and updated exam materials.

Take Care of Your Health

Adequate rest before the exam improves cognitive performance and focus.

What to Bring on Exam Day

To avoid delays and issues, prepare everything in advance. Common requirements include:

• Notice of Admission (NOA)

• Valid government-issued ID

• Black ballpen (strictly no pencil for the answer sheet)

• Long transparent envelope for belongings

• Water bottle (if allowed by the test center)

• Snacks for breaks

Follow PRC’s dress code:

• White collared shirt or scrub top

• Pants (no ripped jeans, shorts, or leggings)

• Closed shoes

Arrive at least one hour early to allow time for security checks and room assignments.

Exam-Day Procedures

Knowing what to expect on test day helps reduce anxiety.

Pre-Exam

• Proceed to the assigned room.

• Submit your NOA and sign the attendance sheet.

• Listen carefully to proctors’ instructions.

During the Exam

• Read questions carefully.

• Manage time wisely—avoid spending too long on difficult items.

• Follow marking rules strictly to avoid invalidated answers.

Post-Exam

• Remain seated until instructed to leave.

• Refrain from discussing answers publicly, as this may violate PRC rules.

Release of Results

PRC typically releases exam results within 3 to 7 working days after the last exam day. Results are posted on the PRC website and major news outlets.

The list includes:

• Names of passers

• Top-performing schools

• Top 10 examinees

Passing candidates should move immediately to the next steps for registration and oath-taking.

Oath-Taking and Initial Registration

After results are released, passers must participate in the following:

Oath-Taking Ceremony

PRC may conduct:

• Virtual oath-taking (online)

• Face-to-face ceremonies

Registration opens through LERIS once schedules are posted.

Initial Registration

Prepare the following items:

• Birth certificate

• Passport-sized photos with name tag

• Oath form (printed)

• Registration fee

After processing, you will receive your:

• Professional Identification Card (PIC)

• Certificate of Registration (COR)

Career Opportunities After Passing the Exam

Becoming a registered respiratory therapist opens various career paths. Common employment settings include:

Hospitals

• Intensive care units (ICU)

• Emergency rooms (ER)

• Neonatal ICUs (NICU)

• Pulmonary wards

Clinics and Diagnostic Centers

• Pulmonary function testing labs

• Sleep disorder clinics

• Rehabilitation centers

Home Healthcare

Patients who require ventilators or oxygen therapy at home often depend on respiratory therapists for monitoring and maintenance.

Education and Training

Graduates may choose to:

• Teach in respiratory therapy schools

• Conduct clinical training and workshops

Research and Medical Device Companies

Opportunities also exist in:

• Clinical research

• Respiratory equipment sales and training

• Healthcare management

Final Advice for Examinees

The Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination is challenging, but with discipline, proper planning, and the right mindset, it is completely achievable. Strong preparation in core respiratory therapy concepts, exposure to clinical scenarios, and familiarity with equipment handling significantly improve your chances of success.

Stay motivated, trust your training, and remember that each step brings you closer to becoming a licensed respiratory therapist capable of making a meaningful impact in patient care.

What is the Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination?

The Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination is a professional board exam administered by the government’s regulatory body to assess whether graduates of respiratory therapy programs are competent to practice. It covers core areas such as patient assessment, respiratory care techniques, mechanical ventilation, pathophysiology of respiratory diseases, equipment handling, and professional ethics. Passing this exam is a legal requirement before you can work as a registered respiratory therapist in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.

Who is eligible to take the Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination?

You are generally eligible to take the exam if you hold a bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy from a recognized and accredited institution. You must have completed all academic coursework and clinical internship requirements prescribed by your program. In addition, you must submit official documents such as your Transcript of Records, valid identification, birth certificate, photos that meet official guidelines, and, if applicable, a marriage certificate. Foreign graduates may be required to provide equivalency documents and authenticated records.

What documents do I need to prepare for the application?

Typical documentary requirements include:

• Official Transcript of Records with the remark “For Board Examination Purposes.”
• Valid government-issued ID with clear photo and signature.
• Birth certificate from the appropriate civil registry authority.
• Marriage certificate for married female applicants, if applicable.
• Recent passport-sized photos with a plain background and name tag.
• For repeat examinees, previous Notice of Admission and, if available, old result slips.

Always verify the latest list of requirements from the official regulatory or PRC-style website because guidelines may be updated.

How do I apply for the Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination?

Most applications are now processed through an online portal similar to a Licensure Examination and Registration Information System (LERIS). You need to create an account, complete your profile with accurate personal data, upload a compliant ID photo, and select the Respiratory Therapist exam. After that, you schedule your preferred testing date and venue, pay the examination fee using the available payment channels, and then appear at the designated office on your appointment date to submit your documents in person and confirm your application. Once approved, you will receive a Notice of Admission (NOA), which you must bring on exam day.

What subjects and topics are covered in the exam?

The exam covers a wide range of subjects related to respiratory therapy. Major topics include:

• Patient assessment, including history taking, physical exam, and interpretation of diagnostic tests.
• Pathophysiology of respiratory and cardiopulmonary diseases such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and ARDS.
• Respiratory care procedures like oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy, chest physiotherapy, and airway management.
• Mechanical ventilation principles, ventilator modes, troubleshooting, and critical care concepts.
• Equipment operation, calibration, and maintenance for respiratory devices.
• Ethics, legal responsibilities, and professional standards in respiratory therapy practice.

Questions may be factual, conceptual, or case-based.

How often is the Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination held?

In many jurisdictions, including the Philippines, the Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination is typically held twice a year, often mid-year and toward the end of the year. However, exact dates and venues can change from one cycle to another. It is important to check the official examination calendar published by the regulatory authority for the latest schedule, deadlines, and testing centers.

What are effective strategies for preparing for the exam?

Effective preparation starts with a realistic study plan that covers all major subject areas over several weeks or months. Use standard respiratory therapy textbooks and review materials that match your curriculum. Practice answering past board-style questions and simulated exams to familiarize yourself with the format and time pressure. Focus on understanding concepts and clinical reasoning rather than pure memorization, especially for case-based items. Joining review classes, forming study groups, and regularly discussing difficult topics can also improve retention and confidence. Do not neglect your physical and mental health; adequate sleep, balanced meals, and short breaks contribute significantly to better performance.

What should I bring and wear on exam day?

On exam day, you must bring your Notice of Admission, at least one valid government-issued ID, and the specific writing instruments required, usually black ballpoint pens. Many testing centers ask you to use a transparent bag or envelope for your belongings. You may be allowed to bring water and light snacks, but electronic devices are strictly prohibited in examination rooms. As for attire, follow the dress code: typically a white or light-colored collared shirt or scrub top, appropriate pants, and closed shoes. Dressing professionally also helps set the right mindset for a serious professional exam.

How are exam results released and where can I find them?

Exam results are usually released a few working days or weeks after the last day of testing. The official list of successful examinees is posted on the regulatory body’s website and may also be published through official social media or partner news outlets. The results list typically includes names of passers, topnotchers, and sometimes top-performing schools. To confirm your status, you can search for your full name on the official results page rather than relying on unofficial reposts.

What happens after I pass the Respiratory Therapist Licensure Examination?

After passing, you will be scheduled for oath-taking as a newly licensed professional. This may be done face-to-face or online, depending on current policies. You must then complete the initial registration process, which involves submitting required documents, paying registration fees, and claiming your Professional Identification Card and Certificate of Registration. Once you receive these, you are legally allowed to practice as a registered respiratory therapist. You can then seek employment in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers, home care services, research institutions, or educational settings.

What career opportunities are available for licensed respiratory therapists?

Licensed respiratory therapists can work in multiple environments. Many are employed in hospital settings such as intensive care units, emergency departments, neonatal ICUs, and general wards, where they manage ventilators, provide oxygen therapy, assist in resuscitation, and monitor patients with complex respiratory conditions. Others work in outpatient clinics, sleep laboratories, pulmonary function labs, rehabilitation centers, and home care agencies. Additional career paths include teaching in colleges or universities, working as clinical instructors, joining medical device companies as clinical specialists, or engaging in research and healthcare management. With experience and further training, respiratory therapists may move into leadership roles such as department heads or clinical coordinators.

Philippines Board Exam Guide: Complete Overview for Students and Professionals