You can meet EMT recertification requirements by completing an accredited online course. Emergency medical technician (EMT) online recertification is common among EMTs recertifying through continuing education.
Online recertification is a convenient way to meet requirements because it gives you the necessary credits without having to toil away in a classroom. You learn at your own pace, which is great if you’re actively working in emergency medical services (EMS).
After the program, you’ll receive a certificate of completion to submit to the National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) and renew your license.
What Are EMT Recertification Requirements?
There are two ways to meet EMT recertification requirements: by continuing education or by passing an exam. Here’s a quick breakdown of each so you know how to prepare for EMT recertification:
Recertification by Continuing Education
EMTs recertifying by continuing education must complete a total of forty credits comprising three academic components: national, local or state, and individual. The national component (twenty credits) includes these content areas:
- Airway/Respiration/Ventilation
- Trauma
- Cardiology and Resuscitation
- Medical and OBGYN
- EMS Operations
The local or state component (ten credits) is often specified by your agency or the state EMS office, while the individual component (ten credits) is flexible but must still be relevant to EMS. Education can be done online or in-person from your state’s EMS office-accepted and CAPCE-accredited providers.
Recertification by Exam
The recertification exam allows EMTs to show their continued competency without taking a course. It’s like taking the NREMT exam again, and it’s a time-saving pathway for EMTs confident in their knowledge and skills.
If you’re recertifying by exam, you can log in to your National Registry account, complete an application for recertification by exam, and pay the examination fee ($104 per attempt). After one to two days, you’ll get an authorization to test (ATT) letter, which outlines how to schedule your exam. If you don’t pass the exam, you must recertify by continuing education before your current license expires.
The EMT Recertification Process
If you’re planning for EMT recertification renewal, you can do so entirely online. Here’s how:
Active Versus Inactive Status
You need to note your status when you apply for recertification. During this process, EMTs must declare an ‘active’ or ‘inactive’ status. An ‘active’ status means you are currently working and providing direct patient care.
An ‘inactive’ status means you’re not currently providing patient care as an EMT, aren’t affiliated with an agency, or can’t obtain skills verification. Examples of EMTs with an inactive status are EMS course instructors.
How to Recertify Online
You must submit your application no later than midnight on the day your certification expires. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to process your EMT recertification by continuing education online:
Log in to your National Registry Account
Open the NREMT website, then log in to your account. If you don’t have one, create one from the same page.
Update Your User Profile
Update your information after you sign in. Make sure that you have the correct email and mailing address.
Submit Your Electronic Recertification
Click on ‘Recertification,’ then enter your education and submit your application. Your proof of education will come from your EMT recertification program provider. Make sure that you keep evidence of your course completion, along with other supporting documentation from the last three years. The National Registry may conduct random audits of applications, so you want to be prepared.
Pay the Fee
Submit an online payment with your credit card. It is a $25 renewal fee, but other taxes and fees may apply.
Print Your Certification
Processing time for online recertification is generally within twenty-four to forty-eight hours of submission. After validation, you can check your account and print your renewed national EMS certification.
Meet EMT Recertification Requirements with The Paramedic Coach
The Paramedic Coach now offers an EMT recertification program that allows you to meet EMT recertification requirements easily online. This CAPCE-accredited course provides you with the information and support you need to successfully renew your license. Enroll today!
