The process of becoming an emergency medical technician (EMT) in Colorado is demanding, but doable.
EMT candidates must ensure that they can meet all of the relevant requirements, complete a rigorous EMT course that’s approved by the state, practice skills needed in the field, find a Colorado EMT test prep program that suits their learning style, pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) written exam, and submit an application and supporting documentation to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
Here’s a closer look at each step:
Confirm You Can Meet All Requirements Before Starting an EMT Journey
Anyone who wants to be an EMT must be at least eighteen years old and have two forms of identification. Candidates must also hold a current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Double-check the CDPHE website for any other requirements you may need to meet.
Complete an Approved Training Program
Colorado requires that EMT candidates complete a course that’s been pre-approved by the state. Programs are typically fifteen to sixteen weeks long and include classwork and hands-on practice. Part of the training also consists of clinical rotations with emergency departments or ambulances.
The school then administers final exams and forwards passing scores to NREMT.
Find a Prep Course That Suits Your Needs
After passing the course, you need to get ready for the NREMT written exam. Tens of thousands of students have relied on The Paramedic Coach to help them prepare and pass the test.
Our Video Vault features more than 480 videos of content created and curated by an experienced paramedic. Subscribers have access to additional learning resources, including more than 2,000 NREMT practice questions, knowledge check quizzes, thirteen different worksheets, drug cards, audio files, and a student community group.
Pass the NREMT Exams
The NREMT written exam confirms that you have the knowledge and skills to provide emergency medical services to those who are seriously ill or injured. The cognitive NREMT test is a computerized adaptive exam.
How many questions are on the Colorado EMT test and their difficulty will vary depending on the test-taker’s performance. The more correct answers given, the harder the questions become until the system is satisfied that you are competent enough to be an EMT.
Apply to the State for a License
Once you pass, register with NREMT and then apply to CDPHE. Colorado issues three-year certificates to new EMTs who meet all of the requirements. If you are already an EMT, you must complete a certain number of CME hours needed for Colorado EMTs to renew your license.
If you don’t already have one, create an online OATH account with CDPHE. Submit the certification application through the OATH platform. Fingerprint-based criminal history background checks from both the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation must be submitted within sixty days of the initial OATH application.
Your Path to Success
When starting on the journey to becoming an EMT, the amount of studying and requirements that need to be fulfilled can feel overwhelming. It’s best to view the coursework and practice as a demanding college class. With the right mindset, organization, and commitment, the path to EMT certification will be much easier to follow–especially with a resource like The Paramedic Coach on your side!
