An emergency medical technician (EMT) recertification program should make it easy for you to process your renewal paperwork. These programs can supply you with your proof of course completion for your recertification application.
This should help you complete your recertification paperwork. If you are experiencing challenges with your paperwork, you can consult with your course’s instructor.
What You Need for EMT Certification Renewal
To renew your EMT certification, you must demonstrate that you’re capable of providing high-quality patient care. This includes:
Valid NREMT Certification
You need to have an existing valid National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) license up for renewal before you can recertify. EMTs need to get recertified every two years, and you must complete your recertification before the end of your two-year window.
Your NREMT certification is valid regardless if your status is ‘active’ or ‘inactive,’ which you must declare on your application. An ‘active’ status means that you’re actively working as an EMT in the field and are affiliated with an EMS agency.
An ‘inactive’ status, on the other hand, shows that you’re not currently providing patient care even though you have the training necessary. This applies to EMTs who are instructors, for example.
Proof of Completed Continuing Education
EMTs can recertify by taking an exam or by continuing their education. If you’re recertifying by the former, you simply submit your application, schedule an exam, and then pass the exam.
If you’re recertifying by the latter (or didn’t pass the recertification exam), you need to prove that you completed the required number of learning credits. For EMTs, this is forty hours, broken down into twenty hours for the national component and ten hours for the local or state and individual components each.
Proof of completed continuing education typically comes as a certificate, which is awarded to you after you finish a recognized EMT recertification program. It’s a good idea to compare EMT recertification programs online to find one that fits NREMT recertification criteria.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification
Recertifying as an EMT requires maintaining your CPR certification. CPR is an essential life-saving measure used in emergencies and is commonly applied in emergency medical services (EMS), so this licensure is critical.
Clean Background
EMTs must adhere to ethical and professional standards. Because of this, certain states and EMS offices may mandate a background as part of the recertification process.
Processing Emergency Medical EMT Certification Renewal Paperwork
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to process your EMT certification renewal paperwork:
Log in to Your NREMT Account
The National Registry conveniently lets you process your recertification online. To do this, you must first log in to your NREMT account.
Declare Your Affiliations
If you’re an active EMT, find your agency and affiliate yourself with your employer. Otherwise, you may select ‘Unaffiliated’ and provide your region.
Upload Your Continuing Education Hours
Enter your required continuing education hours. Always keep information regarding your tests and previous recertification course because the National Registry may conduct random audits.
Submit Your Application
Pay the $25 recertification fee and submit your application.
Check Your Status
Your application will be reviewed within seventy-two hours. If approved, you’ll be notified about your recertification and you can immediately print your renewed license.
Tips for EMT Certification Renewal
Here are some tips to help you renew your certification:
Check State-Specific Requirements
The NREMT website outlines what you need for recertification, but you should check with your local EMS office to find out if there are other state-specific requirements that you must comply with.
Complete Your Education
You must comply with the forty-hour requirement and follow the model laid out by the National Continued Competency Program (NCCP).
Apply for Renewal Online
The National Registry encourages you to recertify online. It’s simple, and you can get your renewed license in seventy-two hours or less!
Get Help With EMT Certification Renewal Paperwork from The Paramedic Coach
The emergency medical care sector is always evolving, with new methods and regulations appearing annually. This is why continuing education is valuable–it ensures that you’re current on industry norms and best practices.
The Paramedic Coach’s online EMT recertification program offers up-to-date information on the EMT field and is designed to help you streamline your renewal–along with the paperwork that comes with it. Enroll for a full year’s access to the course today!


