1. (1) A Respiratory Assistant may upgrade to Certified Respiratory Therapist by doing the following:

   1. (a) Complete and submit a notarized application, attach a “passport” style photograph taken within the preceding twelve (12) months, complete a new background check, and pay the Upgrade and State Regulatory fees as provided in Rule 1330-01-.06.
   2. (b) Submit proof of successful completion of academic and clinical preparation in a respiratory care program approved according to Rule 1330-01-.05(2)(a).
   3. (c) Have the NBRC submit to the Board office proof of successful completion of the entry level practitioner examination provided by the NBRC and/or proof of NBRC certification.

2. (2) A Respiratory Assistant may upgrade to Registered Respiratory Therapist by doing the following: RESPIRATORY CARE PRACTITIONERS

   1. (a) Complete and submit a notarized application, attach a “passport” style photograph taken within the preceding twelve (12) months, obtain a new criminal background check, and pay the Upgrade and State Regulatory fees as provided in Rule 1330-01- .06.
   2. (b) Submit proof of successful completion of academic and clinical preparation in a respiratory care program approved according to Rule 1330-01-.05(2)(a).
   3. (c) Have the NBRC submit to the Board office proof of successful completion of the advanced level practitioner examination provided by the NBRC and/or proof of NBRC certification.

3. (3) A Certified Respiratory Therapist may upgrade to Registered Respiratory Therapist by doing the following:

   1. (a) Complete and submit a notarized application, attach a “passport” style photograph taken within the preceding twelve (12) months, obtain a new criminal background check, and pay the Upgrade and State Regulatory fees as provided in Rule 1330-01- .06.
   2. (b) Submit proof of successful completion of academic and clinical preparation in a respiratory care program approved according to Rule1330-01-.05(2)(a).
   3. (c) Have the NBRC submit to the Board office proof of successful completion of the advanced level practitioner examination provided by the NBRC and/or proof of NBRC certification.

Authority: T.C.A. §§ 63-27-104, 63-27-105, 63-27-106, 63-27-107, 63-27-113, and 63-27-116. Administrative History: Original rule filed January 31, 2000; effective April 15, 2000. Amendment filed March 20, 2001; effective June 3, 2001. Amendment filed March 27, 2003; effective June 10, 2003. Amendment filed April 17, 2003; effective July 1, 2003. Amendment filed December 5, 2003; effective February 18, 2004. Amendments filed March 23, 2026; effective June 21, 2026.