NBRC (National Board for Respiratory Care)
RRT
Registered Respiratory Therapist
The advanced national credential for respiratory therapists, earned by passing the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination at the high-cut score plus the Clinical Simulation Examination. Required or strongly preferred for most acute-care RT positions.
What's on the exam
TMC Detailed Content Outline (effective January 2020; last TMC exam date December 31, 2026). From January 4, 2027 the NBRC replaces the TMC with a new RT Examination (185 items, 4 hours; low cut = CRT, high cut = RRT); the CSE remains through December 31, 2027 only for candidates who passed the TMC at the high cut before the end of 2026
Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations
~36% (50 of 140 items)Evaluate data in the patient record · Perform clinical assessment · Perform procedures to gather clinical information · Interpret ABG and pulmonary function results · Recommend diagnostic procedures
Troubleshooting and Quality Control of Equipment and Infection Control
~14% (20 of 140 items)Assemble and troubleshoot devices · Ensure infection prevention · Perform quality control procedures · Verify equipment function · Standard precautions
Initiation and Modification of Interventions
~50% (70 of 140 items)Maintain a patent airway and artificial airways · Airway clearance and lung expansion · Support oxygenation and ventilation · Administer medications and specialty gases · Modify the respiratory care plan · Provide care in high-risk situations and patient education
Frequently asked questions
How much does the RRT cost?
The RRT costs $190. TMC $190 ($150 repeat) and CSE $200 (separate exams); both required for the RRT under the current pathway. The new RT Examination (from January 2027) is $360 ($300 repeat).
How long is the RRT and how many questions does it have?
TMC: 160 items (140 scored); CSE: 22 problems (20 scored) — TMC: 3 hours; CSE: 4 hours.
What do you need to pass the RRT?
TMC high-cut score plus passing the CSE.
Can you retake the RRT?
Up to 3 attempts without a waiting period; at least 120 days between any subsequent attempts.
What is the best way to study for the RRT?
Start from the official outline and your primary study materials: the exam is weighted by domain (Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations ~36% (50 of 140 items), Troubleshooting and Quality Control of Equipment and Infection Control ~14% (20 of 140 items), Initiation and Modification of Interventions ~50% (70 of 140 items)). Once you've learned the material, spaced-repetition flashcards organized by those domains are an efficient way to retain it and refresh it before test day.
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