Paramedic Certification

There are different certification requirements in states. However the majority of states will require the candidate to pass the NREMT exam
(National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician Exam) to be able to become a certified and licensed paramedic.

Each state has its own board of EMS. They are responsible in licensing paramedics and EMTs.  You are first able to take the NREMT exam once you have completed a paramedic training program or course.

NREMT certification is very important if the candidate is looking to work within the fire department, police force or government.

By passing the NREMT and becoming certified. It ensures the employer that the candidate has successfully completed the EMT- Paramedic level successfully and have a clear criminal record.

Certification Requirements

To apply for the NREMT exam, one must be at least 18 years of age, have a current CPR-card and have completed the paramedic training program. You can find such programs being provided in most community colleges and universities.

The training program must meet (DOT) Paramedic National Standard Curriculum requirements.
Re-certification is required every 2 years. Where a 21 hours educational refresher is usually required.

This exam for certification are held over 2 days, one part is the written exam and second part is practical exam. The written part is a computer based exam that adapts to the answers you give it. Making no exam identical. The practical part will put students in emergency-scenarios based on real-life-scenarios. For further information read or page about the NREMT exam.

For more information visit the official NREMT website.

Paramedic Certification and Licensure

Certification and licenses are basically the same.

The only difference  is that certifications are mostly given by agencies such as the National Registry. While licenses are given by government agencies with an official privilege allowing them to practise their profession.

Currently there are 46 states which uses the NREMT exam in certifying its paramedics and EMTs.

By Jack in Paramedic Training in Alabama on December 12, 2011