To become an EMT in California, you need to meet the basic eligibility requirements, complete a state-approved EMT program, pass the National Registry for Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exams, and apply for certification through your local emergency medical services (EMS) agency in California.
The biggest hurdle for many hopeful EMTs is passing the EMT program and NREMT exams. This is why it’s important to invest in solid EMT test prep for California’s specific requirements.
Unlike other online study resources, The Paramedic Coach’s study guides and tools are designed by EMS professionals and made simple for you. From mastering drug cards to learning about the difference between an EMT and a paramedic in California, we have the expert insights you need to kickstart your EMT career!
Requirements for EMTs in California
Whether you’ve recently moved to California or you’re looking for a change in career, here’s how you can become an EMT in The Golden State:
Eligibility
Before you can begin an EMT training program, you need to be at least eighteen years old and have either a high school diploma or a GED. Some programs may accept you if you are seventeen but will turn eighteen by the date you take the NREMT.
Complete an EMT Training Program
An EMT training program is a course that teaches you the ins and outs of becoming an EMT. These programs can help you learn life-saving skills and get hands-on experience as an EMT and can take between two and six months to complete.
To find a state-approved training program, visit the Emergency Medical Services Authority’s website. If you do not take a state-approved course, you may not be able to get your certification.
Pass the NREMT Exams
The NREMT exam consists of the cognitive (knowledge) exam. The knowledge exam is an adaptive one, meaning that the number of questions and types of questions you get will depend on how you answer previous questions. You have two hours to complete this exam.
The skills assessments test your hands-on knowledge of working as an EMT and are assessed while you are in your EMT class. You will need to show that you know where to locate things on an ambulance, how to use certain medical equipment, and how to support paramedics at the scene of an emergency.
Apply for Certification
Once you’ve passed your exams, you must apply for certification at your local EMS agency. You can find one on the California Emergency Medical Services Authority’s website.
Typically, you will have to undergo a background check because EMTs work with vulnerable people. You may also have to pay an additional fee, so it’s a good idea to call ahead to make sure you have everything you need.
Do I Need an SSN to Become an EMT in California?
Yes–in California, you are required by law to provide your Social Security Number to complete the EMT certification process. Because EMTs work with children, the elderly, and people in crisis, it is important that regulating bodies (like the Central Registry) have a thorough background check on you.
How Long Is My Certification Valid For?
All course completion records, continuing education, and refresher courses are valid for up to two years from the date you are issued your certification or recertification. Recertifying is usually a quicker process and requires you to take a shorter course to update your certification.
Can I Transfer From Another State?
If you have passed the NREMT exam within a certain timeframe and have completed your EMT certification in another state, you may not need to start all over again to work in California.
We recommend you contact your local EMS agency to see if they have information on ‘reciprocity,’ which means they have a system set up to accept certain certifications from other states. You will likely need to pass another background check and submit your certification documents to them.
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