CE Audits and Compliance
The Respiratory Care Board of California (RCB) conducts continuing education (CE) audits to confirm compliance with CE requirements for license renewal. Audits are a routine part of license oversight and are conducted on a random basis.
How CE Audits Work
- Licensees are selected randomly for CE audits.
- If selected, you will receive a CE audit notice by mail.
- The notice will explain what documentation is needed and how to submit it.
The audit applies only to the CE completed for the renewal period being reviewed.
What You Will Be Asked to Submit
If you are audited, you will be asked to provide documentation showing that you completed the required CE for your renewal cycle.
Acceptable documentation may include:
- Certificates of completion for CE courses
- Documentation for credentialing or certification exams
- Preceptor documentation, if claiming CE for preceptorship
- Official transcripts and course descriptions for college coursework
All CE documentation must support the hours claimed and show that the courses meet CE requirements.
Using the CE Tracking Form
The CE Tracking Form is provided to help licensees keep track of CE completed during a renewal cycle. Licensees are encouraged to use the form throughout the renewal period to organize CE information in case they are selected for a CE audit.
If you are selected for a CE audit, completion and submission of the CE Tracking Form is required, along with supporting CE documentation.
CE Audit Checklist (Optional)
The CE Audit Checklist is provided as a helpful reference if you are selected for a CE audit. It summarizes common CE requirements and can be used to confirm that your documentation is complete before submission.
How to Submit Your Documentation
If you are selected for a CE audit, your audit notice will include instructions and a deadline for submitting your documentation. Please follow the instructions provided in your notice carefully. CE documentation may be submitted using one of the following methods:
- BreEZe (preferred): Log in to your BreEZe account at www.breeze.ca.gov, select Manage Your License Information, then choose Attachments to upload your documents.
- Email: Send documents to rcbinfo@dca.ca.gov.
- Mail: Respiratory Care Board of California, 3750 Rosin Court, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95834
- Fax: (916) 263-7311
All requested documentation must be submitted by the deadline listed in your audit notice. Submitting documents in a clear and organized manner will help the Respiratory Care Board review your information as efficiently as possible. If you are unable to provide documentation or did not complete required CE hours, you must submit the enclosed Declaration form with an explanation.
After submission, audit status may be checked at www.search.dca.ca.gov approximately two weeks after your documentation is received. You will be notified if additional information is needed. Failure to respond or provide required documentation may result in your license being placed on inactive status and may be referred for enforcement action.
If Something Is Missing or Does Not Qualify
If some of your CE documentation is incomplete, missing, or does not meet CE requirements, the Board will review your situation. If required CE documentation is not provided within the time allowed, or if CE requirements are not met, your license may be placed on inactive status until compliance is achieved. You may not practice respiratory care while your license is inactive.
Record Retention
Licensees are required to retain CE documentation for four (4) years. This includes certificates of completion, transcripts, and any other documentation supporting CE compliance. Even if you are not selected for an audit, you must be able to provide documentation if requested during the record retention period.
Helpful Tips
- Keep CE certificates and records organized throughout your renewal cycle.
- Confirm that courses meet CE requirements before claiming credit.
- Do not wait until the end of the renewal cycle to track your CE.
- Use the CE Tracking Form to help prepare for renewal or a possible audit.
If you have questions about CE audits or compliance, you can contact the Respiratory Care Board using the form below.
