How to Become an Emergency Medical Technician

5 steps to become an emergency medical technician

1. Meet basic requirements

   Be at least 18 (some courses accept 16–17), have a high school diploma or GED, a driver’s license and a clean background.

2. Get CPR certified

   Most EMT programs require a BLS for Healthcare Providers card before or during the course.

3. Complete a state-approved EMT course

   Courses include classroom learning, skills labs and clinical or ambulance ride-along hours.

4. Pass the NREMT exams and get licensed

   Pass the cognitive and psychomotor exams, then apply for your state license.

5. Start working and keep climbing

   Many EMTs gain experience, then pursue Advanced EMT or paramedic training.

Education and training requirements

You need a high school diploma or GED, a current CPR/BLS card and completion of a state-approved EMT course (often around 150–200 hours). After the course you pass the NREMT cognitive exam and a psychomotor skills exam, then apply for a state license.

Certifications and licenses

• NREMT EMT certification: National certification from the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, used for licensing in most states.
• State EMT license: Required to practice; issued by your state EMS office.
• BLS for Healthcare Providers: CPR certification required before and during EMT practice.
• Advanced EMT and Paramedic: Higher levels of certification with broader skills such as IV therapy and cardiac monitoring.

Skills to build now

Start with patient assessment, cpr and aed use, and airway management and oxygen therapy, and practice calm under pressure and clear, reassuring communication. Learning the emergency medical technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.

Where the career can lead

1. EMT: Provide basic life support and transport.
2. Advanced EMT: Add IV access and additional medications.
3. Paramedic: Provide advanced life support and lead calls.
4. Flight Medic, Supervisor, Firefighter or Nurse: Specialize, lead or move into related careers.

Get a head start

Our self-paced Emergency Medical Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.

Common questions about getting started

How long is EMT training?

Most EMT courses take one to six months depending on the schedule, typically totaling around 150 to 200 hours of classroom, lab and clinical experience.

How long does it take to become an emergency medical technician?

Most people need about 1–6 months of training. You need a high school diploma or GED, a current CPR/BLS card and completion of a state-approved EMT course (often around 150–200 hours). After the course you pass the NREMT cognitive exam and a psychomotor skills exam, then apply for a state license.

Do you need a degree to be an emergency medical technician?

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.

What certifications are available for emergency medical technicians?

Common credentials include NREMT EMT certification, State EMT license, BLS for Healthcare Providers, and Advanced EMT and Paramedic. Every state licenses EMTs, and most use the NREMT exam for initial certification. Licenses must be renewed with continuing education, typically every two years.

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-2042 (Emergency medical technicians).
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
• O*NET OnLine summary for Emergency medical technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.