The NBRC TMC exam (Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination) is the respiratory therapy board exam from the National Board for Respiratory Care. Passing at the low cut score earns the CRT. Passing at the high cut score also makes you eligible for the Clinical Simulation Exam (CSE) toward the RRT.
Practice ABGs and ventilation on the free NBRC practice exam.
Key takeaways
- 160 multiple-choice questions (140 scored) in 3 hours.
- Low cut score: 86 of 140 (CRT). High cut score: 92 of 140 (CSE eligibility).
- The fee is $190 for new applicants ($150 for repeat applicants).
- The NBRC has announced exam changes for 2027.
USA NBRC TMC Exam: Quick Facts
- Offered by
- NBRC
- Questions
- 160 (140 scored)
- Time
- 3 hours
- Cut scores
- 86 (CRT) / 92 (RRT path)
- Fee
- $190 new / $150 repeat
TMC Exam Content
- Patient data evaluation and recommendations
- Troubleshooting and quality control of equipment and infection control
- Initiation and modification of interventions
Free practice test
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Go to the USA NBRC TMC Exam practice test →USA NBRC TMC Exam FAQs
What score do you need on the TMC?
86 of 140 earns the CRT; 92 of 140 also qualifies you for the CSE toward the RRT.
Full answer →How much does the TMC exam cost?
$190 for new applicants and $150 for repeat applicants.
Full answer →Official sources
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