In Connecticut, what do I need to become an EMR or EMT?

Connecticut follows the National Registration of Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) program for both Emergency Medical Responders (EMR) and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT).  If you wish to apply for certification in another state, please review their guidelines and requirements noted with their Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS).  

Emergency Medical Responder

An EMR applicant must be at least fourteen (14) years old and meet the following requirements:

• Successful completion of a OEMS-approved Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training program in Connecticut with a minimum of 60 hours (including written and practical examinations).
• Successful completion of the NREMT EMR cognitive examination.
• Successful completion of a Connecticut OEMS psychomotor examination. 

Emergency Medical Technician

An EMT applicant must be at least sixteen (16) years old and meet the following requirements:

• Successful completion of an OEMS-approved Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training program in Connecticut with a minimum of 150 hours (including written and practical examinations).
• Successful completion of the NREMT EMT cognitive examination.
• Successful completion of a Connecticut OEMS approved psychomotor examination. 

EMR / EMT Documentation Requirements

• A completed online application on the Connecticut eLicense website for EMR or EMT certification.
• EMR or EMT Training Program Completion Form, submitted directly from you instructor to the Office of Emergency Medical Services.
• If under 18 years of age, a Parental Consent Form. 
• Successful completion of an OEMS approved EMR or EMT psychomotor (practical) examination.
• Successful completion of the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) EMR or EMT cognitive (written) examination. 
• If applicable, a completed Verification of EMS License/Certification Form from all states in which the applicant is, or has ever been certified, current or expired, forwarded directly to OEMS from the appropriate authority in any U.S. State or territory in which the applicant is or has ever been certified as an EMR or EMT.  Please contact the jurisdiction for completion fee information. 

Vaccinations

Some employers, departments and hospitals may require you have various immunizations to participate in ride times as a student or practice as an EMR or EMT for their service.  These vaccinations may include: Influenza, Hepatitis B, Mumps, Measles & Rubella (MMR) or an approved COVID shot.  You should check with your affiliated service to determine what is required.

Employers may also require:

• A background check
• Drug screening
• Physical Performance test
• A valid clean driver’s license

You can find a full list of approved EMR and EMT courses on the State of Connecticut OEMS website.

Resources:

EMR: https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Emergency-Medical-Services/Licensing–Certificaton/EMR-certification-by-Examination

EMT: https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Emergency-Medical-Services/Licensing–Certificaton/EMT-Certification-by-Examination