As someone interested in figuring out how to become an EMT you’ve probably come across the term National Registry EMT or simply National Registry and wondered what it means.

What is the National Registry?

The National Registry refers to the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). The NREMT is a non-profit organization founded in 1970.  It’s mission is to serve as the national EMS certification organization by providing a valid, uniform process to assess the knowledge and skills required for competent practice required by EMS professionals throughout their careers.

Before the National Registry was created there was no national EMS certification standard. States were on their own to develop scope of practice rules and every state was different. It made for a confusing system especially if you were certified in one state and wanted to move to and practice as an EMT in another state.

What does the National Registry do?

The National Registry sets standards for scope of practice for the different EMT levels. By following National Registry guidelines, an EMT in one state will have the same skills and competency as an EMT in other states. This level of consistency in quality and scope of practice would be impossible without a national organization to set standards. 

The National Registry provides a certification system that tests EMT candidates to make sure that anyone with an NREMT certification meets the minimum competency necessary to perform their job well. The mission is to assure patients that they will receive the same level of competency from all EMS providers whether they’re in urban or rural areas, and whether they’re volunteers or career EMTs.

The National Registry maintains a database of individuals who are  Nationally Certified as a First Responder, EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, and/or Paramedic. The database is open to the public and can be used to verify that some one is currently certified as a National Registry EMT.

Do I Need National Registry Certification to Become an EMT in My State?

Most likely you will need to be certified as a National Registry EMT before you can apply for an EMT license in your state.

Currently 46 states follow the NREMT guidelines and require National Registry certification. If you become an EMT in one of these states it will be easier for you to get licensed in another state that recognizes National Registry EMT certification. Most of these states have reciprocity agreements that require less work for EMTs with valid, current National Registry certification to become licensed in the state.

The only states that do not require National Registry certification are: Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, and Wyoming. If you live in one of these states you will not have to take the NREMT exam to become certified as an EMT in the state. The down side is that it will make working in another state more difficult as the new state may not recognize your certification and you’ll be required to pass the NREMT exam before applying for a license in your new state.

So as you can see, the National Registry is an independent organization that sets standards for the EMS industry. Their goal is to certify that EMTs are trained and tested consistently across the United States in order to assure patients that they’re in good hands in their time of need. By getting certified as a National Registry EMT you’ll know you have the skills necessary to perform your job and save lives in any situation.

From National Registry EMT back to How to Become an EMT