Respiratory Therapist in Alabama
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AL
How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Alabama
To become a licensed Respiratory Therapist in Alabama, you must obtain a state license from the Alabama State Board of Respiratory Therapy. Key steps include completing an Associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program, passing the NBRC CRT or RRT exam, and submitting a completed application with a $25 application fee and a $75 initial license fee. The license must be renewed every two years, requiring 24 hours of continuing education per cycle.
Respiratory Therapist Requirements in Alabama
| Detail | Alabama |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Alabama State Board of Respiratory Therapy |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Associate degree from a CoARC-accredited program |
| Exam | NBRC CRT or RRT exam ($190) |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. A criminal background check is required. Temporary licenses are available for new graduates for six months, renewable once, to allow time to take the national exam. |
Respiratory Therapist Salary in Alabama
The median respiratory therapist salary in Alabama is $64,010 per year, which is 20.4% below the national median of $80,450.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $48,490 |
| 25th | $52,990 |
| 50th (median) | $64,010 |
| 75th | $71,970 |
| 90th (experienced) | $82,920 |
Alabama employs approximately 2,250 respiratory therapists.
Respiratory Therapist Job Outlook
AI Impact on Respiratory Therapists
Low AI Exposure (Score: -0.19/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Respiratory Therapist in Alabama Worth It?
Factors to consider: Alabama's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.