CPFT

The examination contains 115 multiple-choice items: 100 are scored and 15 are pretest items that do not count toward your score. You are given two hours of testing time to complete it. Because pretest items are mixed in without identification, treat every question as if it counts and pace yourself across the full two hours.

The PFT Examination has two established cut scores. If you achieve the low cut score, you earn the Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) credential. If you achieve the high cut score, you earn the Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) credential. The NBRC does not publish the numeric cut scores, so aim to perform as strongly as possible.

The PFT Examination costs $200 for new applicants and $170 for repeat applicants. AARC members are eligible for a one-time $40 discount when applying for the first time. You must register for the discount through the AARC website first and begin the NBRC application from the link in the emailed instructions; the discount cannot be applied retroactively.

Candidates may attempt the Pulmonary Function Technology Examination two times. After those initial attempts, you must wait at least 180 days before sitting for the exam again. Plan your preparation so that your early attempts are your best attempts, since a failed attempt starts the clock toward that waiting period.

No. If you currently hold the CPFT credential and score below the low cut score on a later PFT Examination attempt, your CPFT status is not affected. You can retake the exam as many times as necessary to earn the RPFT credential without impacting the status of your current CPFT credential.

You must be at least 18 years old and meet one of the following: graduate of, with a minimum of an associate degree from, a respiratory therapy education program supported or accredited by CoARC; be a CRT or RRT credentialed by the NBRC; complete 62 semester hours of accredited college credit including biology and mathematics; or be a CPFT seeking the RPFT credential.

You will receive information about your score at the test center after completing the examination. There is no long score-reporting wait to plan around. Because the result is delivered on site, bring the identification and scheduling confirmation your assessment center requires and be prepared to review your outcome before you leave.

Start with the PFT Detailed Content Outline effective October 2022 to see the content areas and how many questions each section carries, then use it to rank your study order. Next, take the free online practice examination to learn the software, and consider the Self-Assessment Examination, which has the same number of questions as the credentialing exam and includes committee rationale. You have 90 days to complete a purchased SAE.

There are no application deadlines; you may submit your application and fee at any time once you meet the admission requirements. Online applications paid by credit card are processed immediately, while mailed applications take approximately five to seven business days. Watch for the eligibility email, and contact the NBRC if nothing arrives within two weeks.

NBRC examinations are administered Monday through Saturday at more than 300 assessment centers nationwide, excluding nationally recognized holidays. Once you are approved and have paid the fee, you can schedule online. Use the assessment center search to find a location by state or zip code before you finalize your test date.