How Does EMT Training Differ For Each State?

In the United States, the licensing of EMTs is mandated at the state level. Every state has its own special requirements to certify emergency medical technicians. In addition to state regulations, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also has a minimal amount of requirements that have to be met. From the most basic level of emergency medical services to the most advanced level, every state is going to have their own special policies on certification.

This is why it is important for you to get the right kind of emergency medical technician training. If you do a basic search on the Internet, you’ll see that there are virtually thousands of websites offering information on emergency medical technician training programs. There is not enough time to search through each and every result you get. How can you make your search easier?

The first thing you must realize that only state approved schools can give you any future in the emergency medical services industry. Your state only accepts certain schools and training programs. Therefore, you’ll want to be sure that the training you receive comes from a source that is approved by your state. If you have gone to an emergency medical technician training program that was not approved by your state, then you may not be able receive all the credit.

Some schools will let you transfer your credit to their programs, granted if the programs are very basic and the information did cover a solid foundation. You may be given an examination or a series of tests to evaluate your current skill level and knowledge. Once you pass this test, then you may also be able to start your training with a state approved emergency medical training program.

How do you know if they are approved?  One red flag you should be aware of is that some schools do not offer a certificate after you finish their EMT training program. Any reputable school that is state approved will give you a certificate of completion that you can take to the state. 

The state of Colorado offers various levels of emergency medical technician certification. It offers anyone interested in becoming an emergency worker some of the best training available. Those people who are interested must be at least 18 years or older. Training has to be done through a state certificate school or training program. It involves written course work and hands on training.

In the state of California, certifications include EMT-1, EMT-II, and EMT Paramedic. Individuals must have a high school diploma or a GED to enter any state approved emergency medical technician programs. In order to be certified by the state of California, one must successfully complete the emergency medical technician training program. They must also work on site and pass practical examinations. The completion time is approximately two years.

In the state of Arizona there are Basic, Intermediate/99 and  paramedic. All emergency medical technicians are required by the state to go through extensive training programs and complete onsite practical training. In addition,  you will be required to pass written and practical examinations. The training is required to be completed within 2 years.

In the state of Hawaii, there are two primary levels for certification of emergency workers. Basic and  paramedic are the two primary categories. In order to become certified, you have to fill out a paramedic license application, along with extensive course work. Also, the National Registry Exam has to be passed. As you can see, most states do have their own standards and policies. Many accept accreditation from other states after the passage of the state mandated test. The good thing about this kind of training is that the job market is very great.