Preparation & Advancement

Preparation

An EMT needs advanced first aid testing and CPR (must be at the AHA Healthcare Provider CPR level) before enrolling in an intensive course in a community or technical college setting. 

In order to be certified in Washington, graduates of an EMT training program must secure a volunteer appointment or have a job with a qualified field agency — fire department, ambulance, search and rescue, or ski patrol. Hospitals and clinics do not qualify.

Certification

All 50 states require certification. You must take the National Registry to qualify for Washington state certification as well as out-of- state certification, if you want to work out-of-state.

In Washington, EMTs must recertify every 3 years. To maintain National Registry certification, you must recertify every 2 years. Competency Based Training, provided by agencies who hire EMTs, involves 10 hours/year.

Advancement

EMT
Advanced certification
Paramedic, ER tech, medical assistant, RN or physicians assistant
Or employment while studying for a medical degree