NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 1 of 0
Below are the stated requirements for all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, and
the U.S. Virgin Islands, and has been deemed to be valid by NCOAE as of May 24, 2022.
ALABAMA
Phone: (334) 206-5383 Link: https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/ems/
Summary: Alabama recognizes the NREMT (National Registry) Exam as basis for certification, but practical
licensing examinations are still given by state-approved EMT Training Centers and must be completed prior
to an Alabama state EMT license being issued.
ALASKA
Phone: (907) 465-3140
Link:
https://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/emergency/pages/ems/training/default.aspx
Summary: Out-of-state applicants who hold current NREMT certification and show evidence of completing
additional training as outlined in the Alaska Scope of Practice are eligible for reciprocity to the EMT-1 level.
ARIZONA
Phone: (602) 364-3150
Link:
https://www.azdhs.gov/documents/preparedness/emergency-medical-services-trauma-system/
certification/faqs.pdf
Summary: Arizona does not have reciprocal agreements with any other states; therefore, you cannot
transfer your certification to Arizona. You are required to have a current and valid National Registry
certification and reside in Arizona.
EMT Certification Reciprocity for all 50 States, the District of
Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam
This document is meant to supplement your research about the educational and certification requirements
for working as an EMT-B on a state-by-state basis once you pass your National Registry of Emergency
Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam and/or your EMT-B credentials for North Carolina.
NREMT is the broadest certifying agency for EMT credentials in the United States, allowing for reciprocity in
40 states. If you are NREMT certified, you will oen have to take additional continuing educational pieces or
tests to meet each individual state’s requirements.
Each state sets rules for whether your certification will be accepted. Unfortunately, states oen change rules
without notifying the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, so you’ll have to verify the current
requirements for the state you’re interested in working in.
Common reciprocity requirements include:
Current and valid NREMT certification or state certification
Current state training meets the training requirements for the state in which you are applying
Provide documentation of course completion initial certification at your level and/or course
completion of a refresher course
Written exam if you are not an NREMT
Background check and possible fingerprinting
Many states will waive further testing if you are an NREMT. Some states require an additional
practical exam testing your skills.
Some states require additional training to understand specific state protocols and procedures.
9809 River Road
Wilmington, NC 28412
Phone: (910) 399-8090
Web: www.ncoae.org
Email: info@ncoae.org
NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 2 of 0
EMT Certification Reciprocity cont.
ARKANSAS
Phone: (501) 661-2262
Link:
https://www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/new-ems-applications
Summary: Arkansas has a reciprocity process to attain certification. The applicant will use their NREMT
certification and complete an Initial Certification application like any new applicant.
CALIFORNIA
Phone: (916) 322-4336
Link:
https://emsa.ca.gov/emt/#:~:text=In%20California%2C%20EMTs%20are%20certified,residing%20
for%20information%20on%20reciprocity.
Summary: California EMTs are certified by local EMS agencies or other authorized certifying entities, rather
than by the state. You can contact the local EMS agency in the county in which you will be working or
residing for information on reciprocity.
COLORADO
Phone: (303) 691-4932
Link:
https://cdphe.colorado.gov/emergency-care/emergency-medical-services/ems-providers/ems-
provider-certification/ems-provider-0#:~:text=Colorado%20does%20not%20have%20a,you%20
to%20practice%20in%20Colorado
Summary: Colorado does not have a reciprocity process for EMS providers. All first-time applicants must be
registered with the NREMT at the level they intend to practice, regardless of certification in another state.
CONNECTICUT
Phone: (860) 509-7975
Link:
https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Emergency-Medical-Services/Licensing--Certification/EMT-endorsement-of-
out-of-state-certification
Summary: Connecticut requires you hold a current certification by the NREMT or by a state maintaining
certification requirements equal to or higher than those of Connecticut.
DELAWARE
Phone: (302) 739-4773
Link:
https://statefirecommission.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/103/2022/01/EMT-Reciprocity-
Application-12-10-21.pdf
Summary: Delaware requires you to hold NREMT certification and complete the Delaware State Fire School
Reciprocity class, along with filling out a form and passing a background check. Aer this, you fill out a
reciprocity form to get certified.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Phone: (202) 671-4222
Link:
https://dchealth.dc.gov/service/ems-provider-certification
Summary: The District requires you to be certified by NREMT and be sponsored by a certified District EMS
response organization or educational institution.
FLORIDA
Phone: (850) 245-4910
Link:
https://www.floridahealth.gov/licensing-and-regulation/emt-paramedics/licensing/index.html
Summary: Florida requires you to submit proof of current NREMT certification.
NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 3 of 0
EMT Certification Reciprocity cont.
GEORGIA
Phone: (770) 996-6204
Link:
https://dph.georgia.gov/ems-personnel-licensure#:~:text=Reciprocity%20Requirements,the%20
required%20documents%20listed%20above.
Summary: Georgia does not have a reciprocity process. However, to apply for a Georgia license you are
required to have a current NREMT registration and submit an online application.
GUAM
Phone: (671) 735-7413
Link:
https://guamhplo.org/emsc/certifcation-procedure
Summary: Guam accepts the successful completion of the National Registry of Emergency Medical
Technicians (NREMT) exam as reciprocity for certification, along with other forms and clearances it requires.
HAWAII
Phone: (808) 586-2708
Link:
https://health.hawaii.gov/ems/home/ems-laws-and-administrative-rules-that-relate-to-ems-2/
subchapter-7-certifying-emergency-medical-service-personnel/%c2%a716-85-54-certification-
application/
Summary: Hawaii requires you to provide evidence of completion of an EMT-Basic course of training, which
equals or exceeds the curriculum used in Hawaii, along with evidence of your current NREMT certification.
IDAHO
Phone: (877) 554-3367
Link:
https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/providers/emergency-medical-services-ems/emergency-medical-
system-ems-providers
Summary: Idaho requires you to apply for a license there with your current EMS license in another state or
hold a current certification with the NREMT instead of taking an initial EMS class.
ILLINOIS
Phone: (217) 785-2080
Link:
https://dph.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idph/files/forms/emsreciprocityapplication.pdf
Summary: Illinois has a multi-step process with the requirements listed above to utilize the reciprocity
application.
INDIANA
Phone: (317) 232-2222
Link:
https://www.in.gov/dhs/ems/individual-certifications/
Summary: Indiana accepts a state form and verification of EMS status via the home state sending a form
directly to the Indiana oice of emergency medical services with a copy of their NREMT and/or state EMS
certification with the application.
IOWA
Phone: (515) 281-0620
Link:
https://idph.iowa.gov/bets/ems/certification
Summary: Iowa is now using the NREMT exam as basis for EMR, EMT, AEMT and Paramedic certification.
The Iowa Bureau of EMS will accept NREMT (National Registry) certified EMS from another state as basis for
reciprocity and certification.
NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 4 of 0
EMT Certification Reciprocity cont.
KANSAS
Phone: (785) 296-7296 Link: https://www.ksbems.org/ems/?page_id=165
Summary: Kansas requires applicants to have a criminal history check prior to certification. Once this is
completed, you will need to complete the recognition of non-Kansas credentials application.
KENTUCKY
Phone: (859)256-3565 Link: https://kbems.kctcs.edu/certification_and_licensure/
Summary: Applicants who are certified in a contiguous state to the Commonwealth of Kentucky or by the
NREMT as a NREMT-Emergency Medical Technician or any member of the United States Armed Forces — or
veteran who has transitioned within the past six (6) years from the United States Armed Forces, and has
been registered by the National Registry as a NREMT-Emergency Medical Technician or EMT applying for
reciprocity — must submit proof of NREMT Certification, proof of HIV/AISD training, proof of completing
Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma training, and proof of completing Awareness of Sexual Violence training in
order to receive reciprocity.
LOUISIANA
Phone: (225) 342-9500
Link:
https://ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/faq/category/97#:~:text=Does%20Louisiana%20have%20a%20
reciprocity,National%20Registry%20of%20EMTs%20certification.
Summary: Louisiana requires a current state EMS license. To qualify, you must have a NREMT certification.
MAINE
Phone: (207) 626-3860
Link:
https://support.maineems.org/knowledgebase.php?article=75#:~:text=Solution,Maine%20EMS%20
Rules%20Chapter%205.
Summary: Maine allows you to receive a reciprocal license providing you satisfy all the requirements if you
hold a valid license or certificate in another state.
MARYLAND
Phone: (410) 706 3666 Link: https://www.miemss.org/home/ems-providers/reciprocity
Summary: Maryland requires you submit a reciprocity application along with a copy of all current EMS
certificates, licenses or registrations. Once your application has been received, you must enroll in, and
successfully complete, a minimum of a 12-hour Maryland EMT Skills Refresher Course.
MASSACHUSETTS
Phone: (617) 753-7309
Link:
https://www.mass.gov/doc/application-for-emt-basic-holding-nremt-certification-withwithout-state-
certificationlicensure-0/download
Summary: Massachusetts has a form to use to apply for an EMT-B certification if you have an NREMT
certification. If you have or have ever had EMT certification in any other state, you must also complete the
state verification form. Your NREMT must be current and in good standing through the time of the process.
MICHIGAN
Phone: (517) 241-3025
Link:
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/inside-mdhhs/legislationpolicy/ems/personnellic/frequently-
asked-questions-faqs#seven
Summary: Michigan requires a passing score on both National Registry exams, an out-of-state verification
form, and a license application. If the state in which you are licensed does not verify the training of certain
education categories, you will be required to take an abbreviate Michigan course.
NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 5 of 0
EMT Certification Reciprocity cont.
MINNESOTA
Phone: (651) 201-2800 Link: https://mn.gov/emsrb/licensing/ems-personnel.jsp
Summary: Minnesota allows you to get a state license with the NREMT license.
MISSISSIPPI
Phone: (601) 576-7400 Link: https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/_static/47,0,307,374.html
Summary: Mississippi requires a copy of your NREMT certification, a completed application, a reciprocity
agreement from your home state and an original, signed jurisdictional medical control agreement.
MISSOURI
Phone: (573) 751-6356
Link:
https://health.mo.gov/safety/ems/reciprocity.php#:~:text=Per%20the%20Comprehensive%20
EMS%20Act,order%20to%20obtain%20initial%20licensure.
Summary: Missouri only accepts current certification with the NREMT at the level of licensure desired.
MONTANA
Phone: (406) 444-6880
Link:
https://rules.mt.gov/gateway/ShowRuleVersionFile.asp?RVID=4990#:~:text=(2)%20A%20qualified%20
out%2D,appropriate%20fees%20to%20the%20board.
Summary: Montana requires you to complete a reciprocity application and submit with the required
supporting documentation and appropriate fees.
NEBRASKA
Phone: (402) 471-0371 Link: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/EHS-EMS-Licensing.aspx
Summary: Nebraska requires applicants to have an NREMT license.
NEVADA
Phone: (775) 687-7590
Link:
https://dpbh.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/dpbh.nv.gov/content/Reg/EMS/dta/Licensing/Reciprocity%20
instructions%202-10-20.pdf
Summary: Nevada has a reciprocal process with all 50 states as well as the National Registry of EMTs, so
your certification may be transferrable to Nevada once you make residency there and find employment.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Phone: (663) 223-4200
Link:
https://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/fstems/ems/documents/emsreciprocity.pdf
Summary: New Hampshire requires proof of residency or work in NH (or pending work) to be considered for
reciprocity. Proof of one of those is required, along with an application and successful completion of the NR
CBT (computer-based test).
NEW JERSEY
Phone: (609) 633-7777
Link:
https://casetext.com/regulation/new-jersey-administrative-code/title-8-health/chapter-41a-
emergency-medical-technicians-paramedic-training-and-certification/subchapter-4-emt-paramedic-
certification/section-841a-42-reciprocity
Summary: New Jersey requires EMTs certified by NREMT or another state that has a course of study
equivalent or greater than that required of EMTs in NJ.
NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 6 of 0
EMT Certification Reciprocity cont.
NEW MEXICO
Phone: (505) 476-8200
Link:
https://www.percomcourses.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/NM-EMS-Licensing-Reciprocity-
Instructions.pdf
Summary: New Mexico wants you to provide your fingerprints, the completed reciprocity agreement,
complete a 16-hour transition course, and submit a copy of your completion certificate to the EMS Bureau
before scheduling the NM EMS written licensing exam.
NEW YORK
Phone: (518) 402-0996
Link:
https://www.health.ny.gov/professionals/ems/pdf/2016-04-06_draft_rec_pkt_revisions.pdf
Summary: New York will consider granting reciprocal certification to individuals who hold certification
within the 50 states and the District of Columbia.
NORTH CAROLINA
Phone: (919) 855-3935
Link:
https://info.ncdhhs.gov/dhsr/ems/resopros.htm
Summary: North Carolina may issue an EMS credential through the legal recognition process to applicants
currently holding EMS licenses from another state or a National Registry certification.
NORTH DAKOTA
Phone: (406) 444-6880
Link:
https://rules.mt.gov/gateway/ShowRuleVersionFile.asp?RVID=4990#:~:text=(2)%20A%20qualified%20
out%2D,appropriate%20fees%20to%20the%20board.
Summary: Montana requires you to complete a reciprocity application and submit with the required
supporting documentation and appropriate fees.
OHIO
Phone: (614) 466-9447 Link: https://www.ems.ohio.gov/certifications-reciprocity.aspx#gsc.tab=0
Summary: Ohio will review EMS license or certification requirements in other states to identify those that
are substantially similar to their curriculum and certification standards for purpose of granting reciprocity.
OKLAHOMA
Phone: (405) 426-8480
Link:
https://oklahoma.gov/health/protective-health/emergency-systems/ems-division/ems-personnel-
licensure-registration-certification.html
Summary: Oklahoma will accept a copy of the NREMT card with a completed application to grant
reciprocity.
OREGON
Phone: (971) 673-0520
Link:
https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/PROVIDERPARTNERRESOURCES/EMSTRAUMASYSTEMS/
EMSTRAININGCERTIFICATION/Pages/recip.aspx#:~:text=Oregon%20Health%20Authority%2C%20
Emergency%20Medical,a%20current%20National%20Registry%20certification
Summary: Oregon may grant a license to an emergency medical services provider (EMSP) through
reciprocity for those currently licensed in another state who also hold a current National Registry
certification.
NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 7 of 0
EMT Certification Reciprocity cont.
PENNSYLVANIA
Phone: (717) 787-8740
Link:
https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/EMS/Pages/FAQ.aspx
Summary: Pennsylvania allows you to apply for PA EMS certification through certification by endorsement
if you hold current certification in another state or through the NREMT.
PUERTO RICO
Phone: (787) 754-2550 Link: https://www.salud.gov.pr
Summary: National certification is required to become an EMT or Paramedic in Puerto Rico and is obtained
by successfully completing the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians certification exam.
RHODE ISLAND
Phone: (401) 222-5960 Link: https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/216-20-10-2
Summary: Rhode Island allows reciprocal certification if you possess NREMT certification.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Phone: (803) 545-4204 Link: http://www.dhec.sc.gov/health/ems/
Summary: South Carolina recognizes NREMT and other state certifications for purposes of reciprocal
certification.
SOUTH DAKOTA
Phone: (605) 367-5372
Link:
https://doh.sd.gov/documents/EMS/E-Lic_Reciprocity_EMR-EMT_Instructions.pdf
Summary: South Dakota allows you to apply through their e-licensing system to obtain your SD EMT
certification if you are currently certified/licensed in another state and/or if you have NREMT.
TENNESSEE
Phone: (615) 741-2584
Link:
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/healthprofboards/ems/Reciprocity.pdf
Summary: Tennessee will grant certification if you hold a license in another state and hold or have held
a current NREMT certification for the level in which you are applying, or if you have received your training
while employed at a federal agency and hold a current NREMT certificate.
TEXAS
Phone: (512) 834-6734 Link: https://dshs.texas.gov/emstraumasystems/stdrecip.shtm
Summary: Texas will grant reciprocity if your current certification (either out of state or NREMT) is current
and you submit an online application. If you are state certified only, you must take the Texas Assessment
Exam through the National Registry.
U.S .VIRGIN ISLANDS
Phone: (340) 718-1311 ext. 1-3051
Link:
https://www.usviems.com/licensure
Summary: The United States Virgin Islands (St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island) requires EMT
applicants to be registered with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), hold a
valid Virgin Islands driver’s license, successfully complete the U.S.V.I.’s Emergency Defensive and Evasive
Driving Course, and provide written evidence, verified by oath, of good character and good physical and
mental health.
NCOAE_EMT_Certication_Reciprocity_v05242022_A
Page 8 of 0
EMT Certification Reciprocity cont.
UTAH
Phone: (801) 273-6666 Link: https://bemsp.utah.gov/ems-personnel-licensure/
Summary: Utah requires NREMT certification for reciprocity.
VERMONT
Phone: (802) 863-7200
Link:
https://www.healthvermont.gov/emergency-preparedness-ems/emergency-medical-services/
licensing
Summary: Vermont bases all EMS licenses on certification from the NREMT and an ailiation with a
Vermont-licensed ambulance or first responder agency.
VIRGINIA
Phone: (804) 888-9100
Link:
https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/education-certification/how-to-become-
an-emergency-medical-services-provider-in-virginia/i-hold-an-ems-credential-in-another-state/
Summary: Virginia will accept and consider application from providers with current EMS certifications from
any state or territory at the EMT level, only through legal recognition.
WASHINGTON
Phone: (360) 236-4700
Link:
https://doh.wa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/Documents/Pubs//530060.pdf
Summary: Washington requires proof of valid EMS certification from another state or national certifying
agency approved by the department, and proof of a passing score on the NREMT examination.
WEST VIRGINIA
Phone: (304) 558-3956
Link:
https://www.wvoems.org/wvoems-department/personnel-certification
Summary: West Virginia requires a valid NREMT or state certification in another state.
WISCONSIN
Phone: (608) 267-9777
Link:
https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/ems/licensing/reciprocity.htm#:~:text=*Current%20NREMT%20is%20
a%20requirement,where%20you%20are%20currently%20licensed.
Summary: Wisconsin will grant reciprocity with documentation of a current license or certificate issued
by another state, and will require a completed verification of licensure form from every state you’ve been
license or certified in, along with verification of education determining the course to be equivalent to the
training required for an initial license in the state.
WYOMING
Phone: (307) 777-7955
Link:
https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/ems/frequently-asked-questions/
Summary: Wyoming doesn’t have reciprocity with any other state, program, or the National Registry, but if
you have passed your National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians exam, you can fill out the state’s
certification application and take the state exam to become certified and licensed in Wyoming
upon approval.
