If you have a current state EMT license/certification, an equivalent EMT level license/certification, or recognized higher EMS level license/certification, and you are applying for National Registry EMT certification, you must meet the following requirements: 
NOTE: If you have a lapsed state license, visit the Re-entry Pathway

Re-entry Pathway

Requirements for Certification

  • Proof of education requirements. The following methods are acceptable:
    • Successful completion of a state‐approved EMT refresher course or  
    • 20 credits of continuing education that meets all requirements of the current National Component of the 2016 National Continued Competency Program within the past two years. 
      • The National Registry accepts State EMS Office approved and CAPCE accredited education, education from EMS education programs, and U.S. accredited academic credit or college course. All education must be directly related to EMS patient care. 
  • Successful completion of the National Registry EMT certification examination and a State EMS Office approved BLS skills competency requirement.
    • Passed portions of the computer-based certification examination remain valid for 24 months provided all other eligibility requirements are met.
  • Copy of a current state EMT license/certification

National Component Guides

For expiration dates through Sept. 30, 2025:

The new 2025 NCCP Model will begin on April 1, 2025 for EMT/AEMT/Paramedic and October 1, 2025 for EMR:

National 2025 NCCP Model

Application Process

Follow these easy steps to apply for a National Registry examination:

  1. Create your account/log in to your profile.
  2. Create an application - Select the EMT level. Verify your personal information and make any necessary changes. Then, follow the prompts through the application process.
  3. Pay the application fee. Click here for our complete payment policy.
  4. Email your current state EMT license/certification and proof of education to support@nremt.org. Please include your application confirmation ID number.
  5. Monitor the progress of your application from your “Certification Application Status” in case additional actions are needed. Once the National Registry approves your application and your status is “Ready to Test,” you can view your ATT letter and contact Pearson Vue to schedule your examination.

Related Policies

Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) must notify the National Registry within 30 days
regarding the following matters:
  • Change in mailing address (the best way to update a mailing address is by editing the user profile page)
  • Disciplinary action taken by any state has resulted in suspension, revocation, or expiration of state registration/licensure; termination of right to practice; voluntary surrender of state registration/licensure while under investigation.
  • The National Registry considers the individual to be solely responsible for their certification.
The National Registry has disciplinary procedures, rights of appeal and due process within its policies. Complete information about the National Registry Disciplinary Policy and Rights of Appeal can be found here.
The National Registry complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and offers reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Pearson VUE test centers are also ADA compliant. Complete information about the National Registry Accommodations Disability Policy can be found here.

Expiration Dates

Initial expiration dates are determined by the date the candidate successfully completes the entire national certification process (computer-based certification and skills competency requirement.). EMT candidates completing the national certification process between the January 1 and June 30 will receive an expiration date of March 31 two years in the future. Individuals successfully completing the national certification process between July 1 and December 31 will receive an expiration date of March 31 three years in the future.

If you successfully complete the national certification process between January 1 - June 30 your initial certification date will be March 31 of 2 years in the future.

If you successfully complete the national certification process between July 1- December 31 your initial certification date will be March 31 of 3 years in the future.