Are you an EMT who must relocate for various reasons? Life often brings about circumstances which force you to move. It is important for you to do some research on the EMT reciprocity rules for the State which you are moving to. You should already be aware of your market value as an EMT personnel, which will be heavily determined by geographical location as well as experience and education. As an EMT, you have earned certification. You must do some research in order to determine whether or not the State you are transitioning to will accept your certification.
Most States will require some key components as part of EMT reciprocity: Your current certification must be valid in the State it was issued, your current State has training requirements that at least match the general requirements for the State you are moving to and you can provide documentation of course completion for your certification. It is in your best interest to be NREMT certified, as most States will require a written examination if you are not NREMT certified. A good number of States will waive certain testing requirements if you are NREMT certified. If you are not NREMT certified, you must be prepared for at least some testing requirements in the State you are transitioning to.
There are several States that do not recognize National Registry at the EMT-B level: Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia, Utah and Wyoming. There are also a number of States that do not recognize National Registry at the EMT-P level: Alaska, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, Utah and Wyoming. It is important for you to understand this if you are transitioning to one of these States.
Life brings about various opportunities, challenges and circumstances that may force you to make a move. As an EMT, you have current State certification and you must do some research to understand whether or not the State you are transitioning to will accept and recognize your certification. Each State has different criteria it will use to make the determination. It is absolutely in your best interest to be NREMT certified in order to minimize the potential hassles and pitfalls with EMT reciprocity.
About Michael McCandless
Michael McCandless has been in the emergency medical services industry for nearly a decade. He is very proud of his career and the opportunity to serve his community. He is also the owner of the EMT Training and Career Headquarters website, which provides information and resources to individuals interested in beginning a career as an EMT.
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Cool post. I’ve been looking around for reciprocity information and this was really helpful.
Thanks, Cynthia. Glad it helped!