How Long Is the New York State EMT Test?

Emergency vehicle How Long Is the New York State EMT Test

Wondering how long an EMT course in New York is? The New York EMT test has two sections: a written test (cognitive) and a practical exam (psychomotor) test. The cognitive test has between seventy and 120 questions and takes about two hours to complete, while the practical test involves several stations that test different skills. The practical exam can take several hours, depending on the number of students and skills being tested.

Working as an emergency medical technician (EMT) or paramedic in New York comes with many benefits, including saving lives and advancing your career in the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) field. However, you must undergo state-approved training and pass the New York State EMT exam. 

This test can be difficult if you’re not prepared, which is why you should seek help from qualified and experienced EMS experts‒like The Paramedic Coach‒who can provide high-quality test prep for the EMT exam.

What Is the New York State EMT Test?

The New York State EMT exam is a test managed by the New York State Department of Health to certify EMTs. This exam is an essential step in becoming a licensed EMT in NY.

While other American states rely on the National Registry for Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam to certify EMTs, New York has developed its own exam that every aspiring EMT in New York must pass. Although you can still take the NREMT test, you must pass the NYS exam to become certified in New York. 

Components of the NYS EMT Exam

As noted above, the NYS EMT test consists of written and practical sections. Each section will have a direct impact on your final score. Here’s what to expect:

Written NYS EMT Exam

This section consists of knowledge-based questions designed to test your understanding of the various aspects of the EMS field. It’s a computer-based test with multiple-choice questions.

The cognitive questions cover a wide array of topics related to the EMS, such as airway, ventilation, respiration, cardiology, resuscitation, trauma, gynecology, and other EMS operations. You have two hours to complete this section of the exam.

Practical Exam

This is a psychomotor test with practical questions to test your skills and ability to do various emergency medical procedures like patient assessment, cardiac arrest management, bleeding control, spinal immobilization, shock management, and airway management.

The length of the practical test can vary depending on the areas being tested and the number of candidates present.

Eligibility Requirements

You have to fulfill certain conditions to be allowed to take the NYS EMT exam. You must:

  • Complete a state-approved NYS EMT course
  • Complete an application for Emergency Medical Services Certification (DOH-65)
  • Be eighteen years old or older

How to Prepare for Your NYS EMT Test

Start by enrolling in a state-approved EMT course. Then, find relevant study guides and test prep materials from a reliable source like The Paramedic Coach. We have an array of resources to help you pass the test, including videos, practice questions, quizzes, worksheets, and more!

In a Nutshell

The NYS EMT exam has two sections: written and practical. The written exam lasts up to two hours, while the practical test takes several hours, depending on the skills being tested and the number of students taking the test. To increase your chances of passing the exam on the first try, check out our Video Vault today!

Wondering how many times you can take the New York State EMT written exam? Don’t miss our latest post.

Evan Vericker

Evan Vericker, known as The Paramedic Coach, has been serving in the EMS profession since 2011. A nationally certified paramedic and passionate educator, Evan has dedicated his career to helping the next generation of EMTs and paramedics succeed. Through his popular Paramedic Coach platform and Video Vault program, he’s guided over 60,000 students worldwide in preparing for their NREMT exams. With over a million followers across social media and recognition from universities and EMS programs, Evan continues to inspire and train providers to excel both in the classroom and in the field.

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