Illinois Respiratory Therapy
License Requirements

Illinois Respiratory Therapy CE Requirements

24 Hours every 2 years - Total CE requirement for license renewal

• Total Requirement: 24 contact hours of acceptable continuing education are required every renewal period.
• Online/Self-Study: Illinois does not strictly limit the number of hours taken online for Respiratory Care Practitioners, provided the courses are from approved sponsors (e.g., AARC, ISRC, ANCC). You can technically complete all 24 hours via approved online methods.
• Sexual Harassment Prevention: You must complete 1 hour of training on sexual harassment prevention. This is a mandatory requirement for all licensed professionals in Illinois.
• Implicit Bias Awareness: You must complete 1 hour of implicit bias training. This course must be approved by the Department or an approved CE provider.
• Dementia Recognition: You must complete 1 hour of training on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. This applies to all healthcare professionals who provide services to adults age 26 or older.
• Cultural Competency: Effective Jan 1, 2025, you must complete 1 hour in Cultural Competency training.
• Approved Sponsors: Courses must be taken from sponsors approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), such as the AARC or affiliates.

Illinois License Renewal Process

1. Expiration Date: Licenses expire on October 31st of every odd-numbered year (e.g., 2025, 2027).
2. Renewal Window: The renewal period typically opens 2-3 months prior to the expiration date (around August/September).
3. Online Portal: Renewal is completed through the IDFPR Online Services Portal.
4. Fees: The renewal fee is approximately $120.00 (calculated as $60/year). Fees are subject to change by the IDFPR.
5. First-Time Renewal: If this is your first renewal after your original license issuance, you are exempt from the 24-hour CE requirement. You still need to renew and pay the fee, but you do not need to submit proof of CEUs.
6. Audit: The State conducts random audits. You must retain your CE certificates for at least 5 years.