Nebraska Respiratory Therapist License
Nebraska DHHS — Respiratory Care
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
Temp License
Not available
See board
What You'll Need
- Respiratory Care License Application — The official state application form, signed and dated.
- Official Transcripts — Transcripts must be sent directly from the educational institution to the board.
- NBRC Score Report — Official verification of passing the CRT or RRT exam sent directly from NBRC. NBRC Website
- Proof of Lawful Presence — Photocopy of Birth Certificate, U.S. Passport, or Naturalization Certificate.
- Conviction Documentation — If applicable, provide copies of court records for any misdemeanor or felony convictions.
How to Apply
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Complete the Application Form ▾Download and fill out the Respiratory Care License Application. Note that while the form can be filled out online, it must be printed, physically signed, and dated.
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Submit Official Transcripts ▾Request your school or electronic transcript service to send an official transcript directly to the DHHS Licensure Unit at DHHS.RehabOffice@nebraska.gov or by mail.
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Verify NBRC Examination ▾Request the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) to send documentation of your passing scores directly to the Nebraska DHHS office.
Request NBRC Scores -
Provide Proof of Citizenship ▾Include a photocopy of a document proving U.S. citizenship or lawful presence (e.g., Birth Certificate or unexpired U.S. Passport). A driver's license is not acceptable.
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Pay the Application Fee ▾Include a check or money order for $118 made payable to 'Licensure Unit'. Credit or debit cards are not accepted for initial applications.
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Mail the Application Packet ▾Send the signed application, fee, and all supporting documents to: DHHS Licensure Unit, Attn: Respiratory Care, PO Box 94986, Lincoln, NE 68509-4986.
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Respiratory Therapists licensed in another state can often apply via endorsement by providing license verification and current certification.
Steps
-
Submit Initial Application ▾Complete the standard application form and check the box for 'Active license in another jurisdiction'.
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Request License Verification ▾Contact every state where you hold or have held a health-related license and request an official verification be sent directly to Nebraska DHHS.
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Provide CE Documentation ▾If you have been practicing, provide proof of 20 hours of CE. If you have not practiced for 3+ years, 60 hours of specific CE categories are required.
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Pay Endorsement Fee ▾Submit the $118 fee via check or money order with your application packet.
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Nebraska DHHS — Respiratory Care
Keeping Your License Active
Nebraska Respiratory Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Nebraska DHHS — Respiratory Care for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Renew on the board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $100 |
| Endorsement application | $100 |
| Fingerprint check | $35-$50 (varies by state) |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 50.0 |
Slow Downs
Missing Physical Signature
▾
Applications must be physically signed and dated; digital signatures or unsigned forms will be returned.
Incorrect Payment Method
▾
Initial applications must be paid by check or money order. Electronic payments are only available for renewals.
Third-Party Document Delivery
▾
Transcripts and exam scores must come directly from the source (school/NBRC). Documents provided by the applicant are not considered official.
Incomplete Out-of-State Verifications
▾
Failing to request verifications from all states where a health license was held, even if the license is inactive.
Questions
How many continuing education hours do I need for renewal?
▾
You must complete 20 hours of acceptable continuing education every two years.
When does my Nebraska Respiratory Therapist license expire?
▾
All licenses expire on June 1st of every even-numbered year (e.g., 2024, 2026).
Are fingerprints required for Respiratory Care Practitioners?
▾
No, currently Respiratory Care Practitioners are not among the professions required to submit fingerprints for a national criminal background check in Nebraska.
Can I apply for my initial license online?
▾
No. While the form is available online, the initial application must be printed, signed, and mailed with a check or money order.
What is the fee for a new license?
▾
The initial license fee is $118, unless you qualify for a fee waiver (e.g., military spouse or low-income).