Online National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) refresher courses tend to be more affordable than in-person programs. However, the cost can be impacted by the length of the program, the location of the school, the course provider, the price of study materials, additional state requirements, and the format of the class.
Get the Most for Your Dollar
If you are taking an EMT refresher course, this means you have failed the NREMT exam three times. It also means that you have already spent a considerable amount of money on your initial training and exam registration fees, so you’re probably watching your budget even more carefully and want to make sure you can really pass your NREMT exam with an online refresher.
Typically, students taking an NREMT cognitive exam already met state and local requirements during their initial training. However, you should always check with your state emergency medical services (EMS) agency to see if there are any additional assessments or documentation they require before enrolling in a refresher course.
Online refresher courses start at around $100 to $250, while in-person classes start at around $450. In areas with EMS shortages, you may find programs that offer financial support, which can greatly lower the cost of EMT training.
Other Elements That Impact the Cost of a Refresher Course
In addition to the format, there are other variables that can contribute to the cost of a refresher course, including:
Length of Training
Some programs are shorter and more intense. Others spread the coursework out over a longer time period. The more hours included in a course, the more it will likely cost.
Location of the School
Some areas of the United States have a higher cost of living. In these locations, the cost of attending an in-person EMT class may be more than in other areas.
Books and Other Materials
Refresher courses may provide access to e-books, textbooks, medical journals, and other reference materials as part of the program. Some classes may charge extra for these resources.
Certification and Reputation of the Learning Program
The NREMT requires that refresher courses be certified by the Commission on Accreditation for Pre-Hospital Continuation Education (CAPCE). Don’t enroll in a program that does not have this designation, or you may not be able to use the hours toward your certification.
Read online reviews and get recommendations from your colleagues and potential employers to ensure the school is reputable and offers high-quality training. Ask if the program includes practice exams that mimic the NREMT format, so you can become more comfortable with the test format.
State Requirements
Most states accept NREMT certification as part of their licensing process. However, states can also have additional requirements that need to be met before they certify an EMT. It can’t hurt to ask if online EMT refresher courses meet NREMT and state requirements where you live.
Prioritize Your Learning Style and Preferences
You know how you learn best. Before researching different programs, decide if you want an in-person or online program. Cost should be a factor in your decision, but you need to ensure you choose an option that fits your learning preferences and lifestyle.
Online learning offers more flexibility, but you may have to pay extra fees not included in the cost of the class (e.g., if you need additional, in-person skills training). If you learn best by being in a classroom, factor in the time and cost of travel.
Refresh With The Paramedic Coach
The Paramedic Coach offers a proven, CAPCE-certified program to help you pass the NREMT exam. As a subscriber, you will have access for a full year, ensuring you have access to all the information you need and the ability to revisit important content.
The Paramedic Coach cuts through the noise to give you an easy-to-navigate path for passing the NREMT exam and starting an exciting career as an EMT!
