Respiratory Therapy
License Requirements

Rhode Island Respiratory Therapy CE Requirements

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

• Total Requirement: 12 contact hours of continuing education are required every renewal period (biennium).
• Live/Traditional Requirement: You must complete at least 6 hours through live, traditional methods. The state explicitly mandates that no more than 6 hours can be taken as online/home-study courses.
• Online Limit: A maximum of 6 hours can be obtained through online or distance learning courses.
• Ethics Requirement: You must complete 2 hours in Ethics. This is a mandatory topic included within your 12-hour total.
• Content Relevance: Programs must be sponsored or approved by recognized organizations such as the AARC, American Heart Association (excluding BLS/ACLS certification cards themselves), or the Rhode Island Medical Society.

Rhode Island License Renewal Process

1. Expiration Date: Licenses expire on September 1st of every even-numbered year (e.g., 2024, 2026).
2. Renewal Window: Renewal notices are typically mailed or emailed 60 days prior to the expiration date.
3. Online Portal: Renewal is completed through the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) online licensing portal.
4. Fees: The renewal fee is approximately $60.00. (Fees are subject to change).
5. Audit: The Board conducts random audits. You must retain your CE documents for at least 4 years (two full renewal cycles).
6. Late Renewal: If you fail to renew by September 1st, your license becomes invalid. You cannot practice and must apply for reinstatement, which may incur additional fees.