Nationally Registered EMTs (NREMT) are required to renew their certification every two years. NREMTs can recertify by either taking the cognitive examination or by completing continuing education. Note: We encourage you to reference the specific license renewal requirements for every state which you are licensed to practice.
The EMT National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) requires a total of 40 hours of continuing education to recertify. The model requires continuing education in three components: (1) a national component, (2) a local/state component, and (3) an individual component.
The National Registry accepts State EMS Office accepted and CAPCE accredited education, education from EMS education programs, and U.S. accredited academic credit, college course or credit provided by the National Registry Alternative Recertification Credits Policy. All education must be directly related to EMS patient care. International providers must complete education from the list of approved United States education sources.
Education can be gathered through Distributive Education (online) or in-person courses. As of 2022, there are no limits on how much Distributive Education (DE) you can use on your application.
Courses that cannot be applied towards recertification requirements include duplicate courses, clinical rotations, instructor courses, management/leadership courses, performance of duty, preceptor hours, serving as a skill examiner, and volunteer time with agencies. If you have questions on accepted education, please review the Recertification Guide.
NCCP Model requirements have changed. Please check your certification expiration date and choose the correct model for recertification.
Airway/Respiration/Ventilation
Trauma
Medical
Operations
Cardiovascular
If the agency and/or state EMS office requires specific education, that education may be entered into this section. If specific education is not specified, these required 10 hours are considered flexible but must be directly related to EMS patient care.
The 10 hours required for the individual component are flexible but must be directly related to EMS patient care.
When renewing National Registry certification, EMTs have the option of declaring their status as either "Active" or "In Active". Active status means the EMT is 'actively' working and providing patient care. To renew with an 'active status', EMTs are required to be affiliated with an EMS Agency or Service.
An inactive status is designated for Nationally Certified EMS Professionals who are currently not providing patient care at their certification level. For example, inactive status may be helpful for EMS professionals who:
Registrants who wish to declare inactive status must continue to meet the National Registry continuing education recertification requirements in subsequent cycles.
Inactive status is not for those unable to obtain and meet the educational requirements or those who have had limitations or revocation of a health care license.
Registrants who request inactive status at the EMT level do not need to obtain verification of skills from their Training Officer/Supervisor. These registrants must complete all refresher, continuing education and CPR requirements. These registrants are eligible to recertify by examination if they so choose. CPR certification remains a requirement even for those who pass the examination and request Inactive Status.
Nationally Certified EMTs may request a return to active status at any time once they gain active affiliation with an EMS service. A request to return to active status must be accompanied by a completed Inactive to Active Registration form which may be downloaded here.
Renewing LateIf the renewal application was not submitted prior to the March 31 deadline, the EMT may pay a $50 late application fee and submit the application until April 30. However, all continuing education requirement must have been satisfied prior to March 31.
Why Was I Audited?To comply with accreditation requirements, the National Registry is required to randomly audit applications. In addition to random quality assurance audits, the National Registry reserves the right to investigate certification and recertification material at any time. You must retain verification of attendance of all education submitted for at least 36 months. Failure to submit documentation when audited may result in denial of eligibility to recertify.
Reinstatement InformationIf the recertification application was not received by the March 31 deadline, but all educational requirements were completed by March 31 deadline, individuals may seek reinstatement of the National EMS Certification until April 30. There is a $50 reinstatement fee in addition to the standard $20 recertification fee ($70 total).
Lapsed EMT Certification Information on how to regain a lapsed certification is found on the EMT Certification Page. Responsibilities of Nationally Registered EMS PersonnelThe 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.
Recertification CyclesRecertification cycles start on the date the recertification application is successfully processed and approved by the National Registry. After a recertification application is approved, the new expiration date will be two years after the current expiration date listed on the individual's account.
Frequently Asked Recertification QuestionsExam Type: Computer Adaptive
Questions: 70-120
Time Limit: 2 hours
Cognitive Exam Fee: $104 (Per exam attempt)
Renewal Fee: $25
Late Fee: $50 + Renewal Fee
