One of the first questions people ask after being diagnosed with sleep apnea is, "Do I need a prescription to get a CPAP machine?" And when we tell them yes, the next question is, "So how do I get one?"
Today we're covering everything you need to know about prescriptions for CPAP machines, masks, and more. We'll tell you which products require a prescription and which ones can be bought without one. You will also find a step-by-step guide for how to get a CPAP prescription online versus going to your doctor for one.
Later, we'll explain what to do if you need a copy of your current script and how to replace or renew your last prescription. Finally, we'll give you a preview of what comes next in the process of getting a CPAP machine and mask.
You cannot purchase a CPAP machine, mask, or humidifier without a valid prescription in the U.S. due to FDA regulations.
You can purchase disassembled masks that do not include headgear, replacement parts, plus supplies and accessories like fabric wraps and filters without a prescription.
Getting a prescription ensures your CPAP machine is tailored to your exact needs, ensuring you receive the right treatment for your sleep apnea.
You can get a CPAP prescription through a traditional doctor's visit or via telemedicine services that offer at-home sleep tests.
Table of contents
Do you need a prescription for CPAP therapy?
The FDA classifies CPAP machines, masks, and humidifiers as Class II medical devices, which requires you to submit a valid doctor's prescription to legally purchase these devices.
However, CPAP replacement parts for masks and machines can be purchased without a prescription. This includes disassembled mask kits that do not come with headgear.
A CPAP prescription is required for...
- CPAP machines
- Completed CPAP masks
- External CPAP humidifiers
A CPAP prescription is not required for...
- Cushions
- Mask frames
- Headgear
- Short tubes
- Elbows and hose connectors
- Mask kits without headgear
- Humidifier water tanks
- CPAP hoses
- Machine filters
- Comfort accessories
- Cleaning supplies
Why do you need a prescription to buy CPAP equipment?
Treating sleep apnea with CPAP therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all.
From diagnosis to treatment, this condition is complex. So working with a knowledgeable healthcare provider matters. With their guidance, you’ll get the right diagnosis, treatment plan, and equipment.
There are three different types of sleep apnea, and each one can have multiple underlying causes. Plus, severity can range from just 5 events per hour up to over 100 in the most severe cases.
When your doctor writes your CPAP prescription, he or she will take into account your AHI score, risk factors, sleep apnea type, underlying conditions, respiratory health, CPAP pressure needs, and CPAP titration results if you received one.
Treating sleep apnea with CPAP therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all.
From diagnosis to treatment, this condition is complex. So working with a knowledgeable healthcare provider matters. With their guidance, you’ll get the right diagnosis, treatment plan, and equipment.
There are three different types of sleep apnea, and each one can have multiple underlying causes. Plus, severity can range from just 5 events per hour up to over 100 in the most severe cases.
When your doctor writes your CPAP prescription, he or she will take into account your AHI score, risk factors, sleep apnea type, underlying conditions, respiratory health, CPAP pressure needs, and CPAP titration results if you received one.
What you'll find on your prescription for CPAP therapy
- Type of device (CPAP, APAP, BiPAP, or ASV)
- Sleep apnea diagnosis
- Prescribed CPAP pressure settings
- Lifespan of the prescription
- Recommended CPAP mask type
- Doctor's name, contact information, and signature
Can you start CPAP therapy without a prescription?
CPAP therapy is considered the first-line treatment for most people with central and obstructive sleep apnea.
Because of this, the use of CPAP equipment is governed by the federal government, meaning you cannot purchase a CPAP machine or mask without a prescription from your healthcare provider. That said, you can purchase some supplies and accessories.
Recently, there has been an uptick in non-prescription devices called micro CPAP devices that claim to treat snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea. As of 2025, these devices have not been approved by the FDA and are not a substitute for CPAP therapy with a real CPAP machine and mask.
Product |
Prescription Required |
|---|---|
| CPAP Machine | ✓ |
| CPAP Mask | ✓ |
| External CPAP Humidifier | ✓ |
| Mask Replacement Parts | ✗ |
| Mask Kits Without Headgear | ✗ |
| Tubing |
✗ |
| CPAP Hose |
✗ |
| Machine Filter |
✗ |
| Supplies & Accessories |
✗ |
Can you buy a CPAP machine without a doctor's prescription?
Federal law requires companies that sell CPAP machines to collect a doctor's prescription before authorizing the purchase. To be clear, you cannot purchase a CPAP machine without a valid prescription from your doctor or medical provider with related licensing.
In some cases, you may see used CPAP machines being advertised without a prescription online or in local sale groups. These devices are not safe to purchase.
While some well-meaning CPAP owners offer to sell or give away old machines, there are strict laws in place for safely selling or donating used machines.
Anyone who is authorized to sell refurbished machines will state it plainly on their website. If the seller does not ask for a prescription during checkout, the company is most likely a scam.
Can you buy a CPAP mask without a prescription?
You cannot purchase a complete CPAP mask without a script for CPAP. The rules around purchasing CPAP machines and CPAP masks are similar because they are both controlled by the FDA.
However, there is one big difference between buying a CPAP machine versus a mask, and that is that you can buy individual mask parts to build your own mask.
That's right, if you need a CPAP mask but don't have your prescription on hand, you can still purchase a mask assembly kit:
- Mask assembly kits include a frame, cushion, and hose connection
- They come disassembled
- You must purchase headgear separately and add it to the rest of the mask
Can you get CPAP supplies without a prescription?
You do not need a prescription to purchase the following CPAP supplies and accessories:
- Cushions
- Mask frame
- Elbow or hose connection
- Headgear
- Tubing/hoses (with the exception of some heated tubing)
- External batteries and power solutions
- Filters for your CPAP machine
CPAP accessories such as fabric wraps, aromatherapy bundles, CPAP pillows, and chinstraps can also be purchased without a prescription.
If you’re not sure if you need a prescription for a piece of CPAP gear, simply search for it on our website. Every single product that requires a prescription for purchase will have an icon under the ‘Add to Cart’ button that states “This product requires a prescription.”
How to get a new prescription for CPAP
To get a prescription for CPAP, you'll need to undergo a sleep test. Depending on your health history, risk factors, and symptoms, these studies can be completed in a lab or at home.
Get diagnosed with an HST or lab sleep study
Home sleep tests are simpler, faster, and more affordable, but can only diagnose OSA.
Lab studies are more comprehensive and may be needed if your symptoms suggest another type of sleep disorder.
Home Sleep Apnea Test (HST)
An HST is a more convenient way to screen for sleep apnea, because it uses minimal equipment and takes place in comfort of your own bed. To qualify, your provider must suspect obstructive sleep apnea without other medical conditions that could interfere with accurate results. HSTs are commonly used as a first step in diagnosing sleep apnea before moving on to in-lab testing if needed.
Lab Sleep Study (Polysomnogram)
A lab sleep study, or polysomnogram, is an overnight test conducted in a sleep center and monitored by a sleep technologist. It’s used to diagnose a variety of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea and narcolepsy. If signs of sleep apnea are detected, the lab may use part of the night to test how you respond to CPAP therapy.
Can I get a CPAP prescription online?
If this is your first CPAP prescription or it's been more than 10 years since you were diagnosed with OSA, the easiest and quickest way to get a prescription for CPAP therapy is to order an at-home sleep test from an online provider.
Going this route saves you time, energy, and even money since you're able to skip the initial visit to your primary care doctor and instead schedule an online consultation with a telehealth provider.
These tests are not as comprehensive as a lab study and cannot diagnose central sleep apnea, but they’re very reliable if you are at risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Order a home sleep test (HST) from a trusted provider.
Complete a telehealth visit with a licensed provider to review your health history, risk factors, and symptoms.
Receive your HST kit by mail and complete the test at home—usually over 1 to 3 nights.
Send the kit back using the prepaid return label and wait up to two weeks for your results
Your provider will issue an electronic CPAP prescription if your results show obstructive sleep apnea (AHI of 5 or more).
Your CPAP prescription will be specific to your therapy needs, including the type of PAP device and pressure settings.
Most HST providers will prescribe an auto-CPAP directly, but some may require you to bring your results to your doctor for the prescription.
Our HST is the start to better sleep and a healthier you
Our at-home sleep test brings expert diagnosis right to your doorstep, guiding you toward the vibrant world of good sleep. With the support of our CPAP Guides and a simple four-step process, you'll have clear answers about your sleep health—and a plan to move forward.
Sleep apnea, meet your match.
How do I get a CPAP prescription from my doctor?
If you prefer to work with your primary care doctor—or if you may have a condition beyond obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—you can start by scheduling an in-person visit. Your doctor can then order either a home sleep apnea test (HST) or a more detailed in-lab sleep study, depending on your symptoms and medical history.
This route is especially helpful if your doctor suspects a more complex sleep disorder, like central sleep apnea, or if you're managing other health conditions that could affect your sleep and/or respiratory health.
Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your sleep concerns.
Your doctor will order either a home sleep test or an overnight in-lab sleep study (polysomnogram).
Complete the sleep study as directed—either from home over a few nights or at a sleep clinic in a single overnight session.
Your doctor will review your test results to determine whether you have sleep apnea.
If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea (AHI of 5 or more), your doctor will write a CPAP prescription tailored to your needs.
Your prescription will include the type of machine you need (CPAP, APAP, or BiPAP) and your specific pressure settings.
If you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea but you have not received your prescription yet, you can have your doctor fill out one of these forms and then send it back to us via email or fax:
If your doctor needs help with writing a valid prescription for a CPAP machine, mask, or humidifier, we can tell them what topics need to be covered for your order to be processed.
What to do if you can't find your current therapy prescription
How do I get a copy of my current CPAP prescription?
If you already have a valid prescription but need help finding it give your doctor a call or ask our CPAP guides for help.
Ask your doctor for a copy: Contact your doctor's office and ask them to send you another copy of your CPAP prescription.
Have us call your doctor directly: Send us your doctor's information and have our CPAP Guides contact your doctor directly to get a copy of your script.
Check your prescription history: If you've submitted a prescription in the past we should have it on file. Simply log into your cpap.com account and tap "My Prescriptions".
Have our CPAP Guides check our records: If you've ever ordered a CPAP machine or mask from cpap.com, we should have a record of your prescription. Give our CPAP Guides a call and ask them to look up your order history.
Ask your previous CPAP provider: If you previously worked with another DME, they may still have your prescription on file. If so, you can ask them to send over a copy.
Need help?
Contact our CPAP Guides!
- Call: 1-800-356-5221
- Email: support@cpap.com
- Chat: Tap "Ask Us" in the lower right hand corner of our website or app.
What can I do if I lost my CPAP prescription?
If you’ve misplaced your prescription or it’s recently expired, don’t worry—you don’t have to start from scratch. CPAP.com offers an affordable Prescription Renewal Service that makes it easy to stay on track with your therapy.
Through our Rx Renewal Program, you’ll connect with a licensed physician who will review your current CPAP use and determine if you qualify for a renewed prescription—all without waiting weeks for a traditional appointment.
Purchase a renewal through CPAP.com.
Check your email for next steps.
Complete a short form telling us about your health history.
Attend a virtual consultation with a licensed healthcare provider.
Your provider will review your medical history to determine if continuing CPAP therapy is right for you.
If approved, your new CPAP prescription will be sent to you electronically.
This is a valid CPAP prescription that can be used to purchase equipment from any valid CPAP supplier, including online sellers and brick-and-mortar DMEs.
Are you eligible for an online Rx renewal?
Sleep apnea diagnosis within the past 10 years
Must currently be using CPAP
Not available in Montana or North Dakota
Dependent on approval from the consulting healthcare provider
Who can write a valid CPAP prescription?
Healthcare professionals who can issue CPAP prescriptions:
- Medical doctors (MD)
- Doctors of osteopathy (DO)
- Psychiatrists (MD Only)
- Physician assistants (PA)
- Nurse practitioners (NP, APN)
- Dentists
- Naturopathic physicians
Healthcare professionals who cannot issue CPAP prescriptions:
- Chiropractors
- Podiatrists
- Optometrists
- Psychologists
- Registered nurses (RN)
- Licensed practical nurses (LPN)
- Medical assistants
- Sleep technologists
- Respiratory technicians
While your prescription can simply be written on a standard prescription pad, we also offer a General Prescription Form to send to your prescribing physician.
What does my CPAP prescription need to say?
It's important to make sure your prescription for CPAP therapy includes all the necessary information. If any of this information is missing, it may invalidate your prescription or make it difficult to purchase your CPAP machine on the first try.
Your healthcare provider's contact information/NPI
Your healthcare provider's signature
Your full first and last name, plus any other names you may go by
Your birthdate
Date the prescription was signed
Prescription expiration date
Number of CPAP machine "refills" or the number of times it can be repalced
Diagnosis
Type of PAP therapy required (CPAP, Auto-CPAP, BiPAP, or ASV)
Pressure setting requirements
How long is my CPAP prescription valid?
Some prescriptions for a CPAP machine have a finite expiration date or can be valid for life; this is ordered based on how many “refills” your doctor writes on the prescription.
No expiration date or lifetime: If your prescription states that it is valid for a “lifetime,” then you are able to use it as many times as you need (this is also expressed as PRN, LON, 99, or 99 months).
"X” number of refills: If it states five refills, then you will have to see your doctor again on your sixth.
“Valid until” date: Some prescriptions may also say they are valid until a certain date. This means that the prescription cannot be used after the expiration date.
What's next after getting your CPAP prescription?
Once you’ve received your CPAP Rx, you're ready to move on to the next steps of purchasing your equipment and the supplies you need to start CPAP therapy.
Next up, you've got a big decision to make—will you buy a CPAP machine through insurance or pay out of pocket?
Of course, we'll be here to guide you through your options:
- Pay for the full cost of the machine yourself through a reputable online retailer
- Use your health insurance policy to get a CPAP from a brick-and-mortar DME store or an online CPAP seller.
Should I get my equipment through insurance or pay out of pocket?
Going through insurance can be stressful for some, and there’s a whole other world of policies and deductibles to dive into on the matter; it’s best to get in contact with your agent to explore your options and see what’s best for you.
Insurance usually decides what CPAP equipment you can get, which is why many people choose to shop on their own—and often save money by paying out of pocket.
For more information on what comes next in your CPAP journey, check out our step-by-step guide on how to get a CPAP machine.
Final thoughts
Getting a prescription for CPAP therapy isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s an important first step toward effective, personalized treatment. With the right equipment and settings, you’re setting yourself up for safer, more comfortable therapy and taking an active role in your own health.
If you decide to go through CPAP.com for your CPAP needs, we have a number of different ways for you to send your prescription information to us to make the buying process easier. And if you have any questions along the way, know that our CPAP Guides are trained to help.
Need help? Contact us!
- Call: 1-800-356-5221
- Email: support@cpap.com
- Chat: Connectwith a CPAP Guide through our website or app
