No. A central ducted HVAC system does not necessarily require a dedicated return duct from every room.

However, every conditioned room should have an adequate path for supply air to return to the air handler.

What is the preferred return-air arrangement?

Where space and construction conditions allow, a dedicated active return grille and return duct can provide very effective room airflow balance.

What if a dedicated return duct is not practical?

Transfer grilles, jump ducts or other connected return-air paths can allow room air to reach a corridor or central return grille.

Why is this especially important in bedrooms?

Bedroom doors are often closed during HVAC operation. If supply air enters the room but cannot return, the room may become positively pressurized and supply airflow can decrease.

A properly sized return-air path helps maintain airflow and pressure balance even with the door closed.