Respiratory Therapy
License Requirements

Washington Respiratory Therapy CE Requirements

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

• Total Requirement: 30 contact hours of continuing education are required every renewal period.
• AARC Approved Minimum: At least 10 hours must be earned in courses approved by the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC). These are often considered 'Sponsored' hours.
• Online/Self-Study: There is technically no limit to the number of hours taken online, *provided* the courses are AARC-approved. The regulations do list a 10-hour limit for 'Related Studies' (which includes self-study journal reading and non-sponsored internet courses), but this limit does not apply to AARC-approved online courses.
• Mandatory Topics: - Health Equity (New Rule): Effective Jan 1, 2024, you must complete 2 hours of Health Equity training every renewal cycle. This is a mandatory requirement for all health professions in Washington.
• Remaining Hours (18 Hours): Can be obtained from sponsored courses (AARC, AMA, AAP), certifications (ACLS, PALS, NRP - 10 hours each for initial/renewal), or by serving as an instructor.
• Documentation: You must verify your CEUs by attestation on the renewal form. You only need to submit certificates if audited.

Washington License Renewal Process

1. Expiration Date: Licenses expire every 2 years on the Licensee's Birthday.
2. Renewal Window: Renewal typically opens 90 days prior to your expiration date.
3. Online Portal: Renewal is completed through the Secure Access Washington (SAW) portal, which connects to the HELMS (Health Enforcement and Licensing Management System) service.
4. Fees: The standard renewal fee is currently $110.00.
5. Late Renewal: If you renew after your birthday, a Late Penalty Fee of $55.00 is added (Total: $165.00).
6. Audit: The Department of Health conducts random audits. You must retain your CE documentation (certificates) for at least 4 years.