Chances are, you’ve ended up here because you would like to find out more about how to become an EMT. Though the requirements do sometimes vary from one state to another, the general process one must follow to become an EMT still stands. In this article, we are going to go over the steps involved in becoming an EMT, from start to finish!
The Steps – How to Become an EMT
1) Complete a CPR program – In order to pass the NREMT exam, you will need to be CPR certified. Now, your EMT training course may include this, or it may not. Your best bet is to contact the coordinator in charge of your training course and ask whether or not CPR training is included in the program. If it is, then you’re good to go. In the case that CPR training is not included in your EMT course, you will have to register for an independent course. You can register for CPR classes at the Red Cross, and the classes are generally very affordable.
Additional Information
2) EMT-B Certification – The first level of certification is EMT-B certification, also known as EMT-Basic. Training course to obtain your EMT-B certification are offered at local community colleges. Courses will generally run anywhere from $400 to $900, so do your due diligence before applying for a specific course.
3) Complete the NREMT Exam – The NREMT (National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians)) is a standardized exam that everyone must take in order to become an EMT. Quite frankly, it’s the final step in becoming an EMT (well, an EMT-Basic). In order to take the exam, you must be 18 years of age, and have taken an EMT training course (as outlined in step number 2) at sometime within the last 2 years. If it has been longer 2 years since you completed your training course, you will need to retake the course. Additionally, the instructor of your course will need to verify that you did in fact complete the required CPR certification, and are fit to work as an EMT.
4) Consider pursuing further training – At this point, you have successfully become an EMT,
and can begin looking for a job in the field. Though this step is optional, it is highly recommended for those who want to further their career, increase their salary, and expand their career opportunities. The next level up is EMT-I, also known as EMT-Intermediate. Becoming an EMT-I requires additional training, which is also offered at many local community colleges. Finally, the last level is the Paramedic level. Becoming an EMT-Paramedic can take up to a couple years, but does open up many more job options and the opportunity to receive a higher salary. In order to become a certified Paramedic, twelve or more months of experience is required, in addition to the extra training.
It can often be overwhelming when searching online and looking for all the information on how to become an EMT. One source tells you one thing, while another source tells you another. Our goal at EMT Training Spot is to make the process as smooth as possible for you. If you have any questions, either pertaining to the process of becoming an emergency medical technician, or any other EMT related information, feel free to comment below.
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About Mark A.
My local community college offers emt certification, but i am very close to attaining an associate degree from this college already. I have changed my plans but should I continue and get an associates degree or should I just go and get certified and start working?
Technically if I have a job, all an associates degree will be is just a piece of paper and a small bragging right to say, ya i have a degree…but I’m so close and yet if i do take time to finish it up is it going to give me a better advantage? My goal is to continue to work until I’m a paramedic.
thank you.
Hi Beca,
Well ultimately, it will be a personal choice. Personally, I would say that if you’ve already completed the majority of your degree, follow through and finish it up. You never know where it may help you in the future. After all, you’ve already spent some time working on earning your degree.
If you have any other questions in regards to become an EMT, feel free to ask. When asking, please be sure to specify which state you are located in, as the EMT requirements do vary from one state to another.
Mark
Are these steps general, as in the same from one state to another? I’m trying to figure out how to become an EMT in New York. I’ve heard that there are specific requirements in each state, and they are not always the same from state to state. Is that true? I’d appreciate some more information on becoming an EMT in New York. Thanks!
Jess
Hi Jessica,
These steps are quite general, as the steps to become an EMT do vary from one state to another (as you mentioned). If you’d like to learn about the EMT requirements in your state, you can visit this page:
http://www.emttrainingspot.com/emt-training-state-requirements/
Mark
I really want to become and EMT, but if i decide to become an ER doctor, or work somewhere in the hospital, is that possible? could you be an EMT and study in medical school?