Several options are available if you’re ready to recertify your EMT certificate. These include taking a refresher course and continuing education classes or going through the NREMT renewal process.
Both options allow you to increase your body of knowledge as an EMS provider. However, each has its requirements.
NREMT Requirements
Before you can become a certified EMT, you must pass two exams. First, you must pass a cognitive exam that tests your knowledge of emergency medical services equipment and procedures.
Next, you must pass a psychomotor exam that measures your skills in handling patients. This assessment is taken either at your training institute or the State EMS Office.
If you fail to pass the cognitive or psychomotor exam, you can retake it. You may also apply for a pilot recertification program that allows you to exhibit your competency and finish continuing education before you take the licensure exam again.
You must complete 40 hours of continuing education to renew your EMT certification. This includes 10 hours in the National Component and 20 in the State Component.
State Requirements
Many states require renewing emt certification Texas online periodically. These renewal periods typically open in the spring and close in June or July.
There are two ways to recertify as an EMT: by taking the National Registry exam or by completing continuing education classes. Check the specific renewal requirements for each state you’re licensed in.
The NREMT recertification process is the most straightforward way to recertify as an EMT. You’ll need to earn 40 hours of continuing education, including 20 for the National Component.
You’ll also need to complete 10 hours of the individual component, which are flexible but must be directly related to EMS patient care.
Renewing your EMS certification isn’t difficult, but it can be time-consuming and stressful. Plan and start the application process early.
Other Requirements
Many states require that you renew your EMT certification every two years. This can be done by either taking an exam or completing continuing education.
Another option is to take an EMT refresher course that re-acquires your baseline knowledge and skills (this usually requires a written test). The refresher course will also verify your skill competency.
Contact your local EMS office to get this course and find out what courses are available. You can also find courses online that will help you refresh your EMT knowledge and skills.
During your renewal process, please keep track of your CEHs and submit them to the Bureau.
Continuing Education
Continuing education for EMS professionals is essential to stay current with the latest science and technology. With discoveries coming out every day, keeping up with the newest information can help treat your patients better and keep their lives safe.
EMS CE courses can be conducted through traditional classrooms, online, or hybrid programs. Whatever method you choose, it’s important to ensure qualified instructors teach the courses.
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) must recertify every two years to remain certified and in good standing with the NREMT. To do so, they must complete an exam or continuing education courses.
Taking CE can be tedious and time-consuming, but it’s essential for all EMS professionals to stay current to provide the best care possible. Taking a course or reading professional journals can be a great way to keep your knowledge up-to-date and learn about new treatment options.
Add Training Hours to Your EMT Certification
Consider the National Continued Competency Program if you want to add training hours to your EMT certification. This program requires 40 hours of approved continuing education every two years.
To qualify, EMTs must complete a course that the National Registry approves. The course must be competency-based, requiring a minimum of 65 hours of classroom and clinical time.
The curriculum is designed to prepare individuals to become emergency medical technicians or ambulance attendants. Students also learn how to operate an automated external defibrillator (AED) and use atropine and epinephrine.
You can add up to 10 patient contact hours to your training. These hours can be substituted for any combination of the following categories.