CRT Examination
logoThe Entry-Level CRT Examination is designed to objectively measure essential knowledge, skills, and abilities required of entry-level respiratory therapists. The examination consists of 160 multiple-choice questions (140 scored items and 20 pretest items) distributed among three major content areas: clinical data, equipment, and therapeutic procedures. Candidates will be given three hours to complete the Entry-Level CRT Examination. Click here for additional examination Frequently Asked Questions.

If you are planning to take any of the credentialing examinations offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care, Inc. (NBRC), the Self-Assessment Examination provides an excellent opportunity for you to find out in advance how well you will do. The SAEs are available in web-based format and more information and pricing instructions can be found listed to in the right hand pane of this page.

Alert Admission Requirements


  1. Applicants shall be 18 years of age or older.
  2. Applicants shall satisfy ONE of the following educational requirements:
  • a. Applicants shall have a minimum of an associate degree from a respiratory therapist education program 1) supported or accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), or 2) accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and graduated on or before November 11, 2009.

 

  • b. Applicants enrolled in an accredited respiratory therapy program in an institution offering a baccalaureate degree may be admitted to the CRT Examination with a "special certificate of completion" issued by a sponsoring educational institution. The CoARC will authorize such institutions to issue the "special certificate of completion" at the advanced-level following completion of the science, general academic and respiratory therapy coursework commensurate with the requirements for accreditation.

Alert Free Practice Examination



The web-based NBRC self-evaluation examinations are designed to simulate taking an NBRC examination. The software is identical to that which is used for the administration of NBRC examinations. To use this software you will need an HTML 4.0 compatible browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator with "cookies enabled" and an HTML capable e-mail account for delivery of a feedback report. (Web tests are NOT compatible with limited functionality browsers such as WebTV.)

Clicking the hyperlink below will open the self-evaluation examination login page. Please read the following instructions:
  • Login using your e-mail address. Your results will be sent to this address.
  • Use the mouse to select your responses and to maneuver through the examination.
  • To obtain your results, you must take the entire examination in one sitting. Your results are not saved if you exit the examination.
  • When you have completed the examination, click Finish and Display. Your results are displayed onscreen and will be e-mailed to you if you provided your e-mail address on the login page. (For the CSE self-evaluation examination, you must display your results onscreen at the end of the examination for this e-mail to be generated.)
  • If you need help using the examination software, click on the Help button in the lower portion of the screen once you begin the examination.

Free CRT Practice Examination

CRT Examination FAQs


Can I schedule my examination online?
If you are already approved to take an NBRC examination and all fees are paid, you may schedule online from the NBRC website or from the testing agency's website, www.goAMP.com.
What is the application process?
You may apply online using the "Submit Application" link located on each examination page or submit a completed paper application and appropriate fee when the admission requirements are satisfied. If mailing your application, the NBRC recommends using certified mail or a certificate of mailing and keeping your receipt as proof that your application was sent to the NBRC. Ineligible applications submitted to the NBRC will be returned less a $50.00 processing fee.
When are NBRC examinations administered?
NBRC examinations are administered by computer on a daily basis (Monday - Saturday) at over 170 Assessment Centers across the country. A complete list can be found here.
How long does it take to process my application?
If applying and paying by credit card online, your application is processed immediately. If mailing your application and fee to the NBRC, your application will be processed within approximately two weeks after receipt by the NBRC. A confirmation notice of your eligibility will be sent to you. If your eligibility cannot be confirmed, a letter explaining the information that is still needed will be sent to you.
When is the application deadline?
There are no application deadlines and if you meet the admissions requirements for an examination you may submit your application and fee at any time. Your application may be submitted online or can be downloaded and printed from this website.
What information does the confirmation of eligibility notice contain?
The confirmation notice contains a website address and toll-free telephone number for you to contact the NBRC to schedule an examination appointment. Appointments may be scheduled a minimum of three days prior to the desired testing date. Note: Examinations will not be offered on nationally recognized holidays.
What if I do not receive a confirmation of eligibility in the mail?
If you do not receive a confirmation of eligibility or an incomplete notice from the NRBC within four weeks after mailing your application, contact the NBRC. If your application is not on file, you will be asked to send a replacement application form and fee.
Can I qualify to take the CRT Examination with foreign education?
Foreign respiratory therapy education does not allow you to qualify for admission to the CRT Examination. You must have a minimum of an associate degree from an accredited respiratory therapy education program. For a list of accredited education programs, please visit the CoARC website at www.coarc.com.