If you plan on beginning your EMT training in Texas, you’ll want to make sure you meet the minimum requirements. For starters, those who have previously been convicted of a crime (listed on the statute) subsequent to September 1st, 2009, are unable to become a certified EMT in the state of Texas. It’s important to keep in mind that not all criminal convictions bar you from becoming an EMT. Crimes found under the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 42.12, Sections 3g(a)(1)(A) to (H) permanently prohibit you from becoming certified. To see these crimes as listed in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, click here. If you have been convicted of a crime, but it does not fall under the statute above, you are statutorily not permanently disbarred from obtaining EMT certification. If that is the case, your conviction can, and likely will be reviewed and certification will be granted on a case by case basis.
There is a minimal education requirement in order to become an EMT. You must have completed high school or received a GED (General Education Diploma). If you do not meet this requirement, it is generally one that is fairly easy to overcome. Receiving a GED is a process that can sometimes only take a week, which comprises of a few tests on various subjects. It is important to prepare and be well versed in various subjects, as you must place out in each subject to successfully obtain a GED in Texas.
There are several EMT training courses available in the state of Texas, and it is important to choose one that
is permitted to operate by the Department of Social and Health Services. The Department of Social and Health Services has a list of schools that are permitted by the State. Additionally, your local Texas Workforce Commission branch will be able to provide more information and a list of approved EMT training courses. From time to time, the Texas Workforce Commission will also have special programs that are funded by the State.
Once the training course has been completed, you should be prepared to take the National Registry Exam. This exam is utilized by almost all states, including Texas. The exam consists of two parts, one of which is a verbal test, the other which is a practical written test. Test takers must pass both portions in order to become a certified EMT in the state of Texas. In addition to successfully passing the exam, required documents must be submitted. Once the exam has been successfully completed, and required documents filed, certification should be arrive between three to six weeks.