2026 Virginia EMS Recertification Guide

2026 Virginia EMS Recertification Guide

Virginia’s EMS office oversees the recertification process for EMT, Advanced EMT (AEMT), and Paramedic credentialed providers. This guide summarizes the common NCCP renewal pathway, points you to official resources, and shows how Code One can help you complete your renewal efficiently.

Information on this page is reviewed regularly. Always confirm the rules, required topics, and submission steps with your Virginia EMS office.

Virginia EMS Recertification Overview

Many states use the National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) framework. NCCP organizes continuing education into three components: National, State/Local, and Individual. Your state may add documentation requirements, approved topic lists, or portal submission steps.

Guide to Virginia EMT Recertification

• Complete 40 hours of approved continuing education (typical NCCP total for EMT).
• Follow the state’s renewal instructions and submit your renewal application using the official state process.

Get started now: Code One’s Online EMT Recertification Program

Guide to Virginia Advanced EMT (AEMT) Recertification

• Complete 50 hours of approved continuing education (typical NCCP total for AEMT).
• Follow the state’s renewal instructions and submit your renewal application using the official state process.

Get started now: Code One’s Online AEMT Recertification Program

Guide to Virginia Paramedic Recertification

• Complete 60 hours of approved continuing education (typical NCCP total for Paramedic).
• Follow the state’s renewal instructions and submit your renewal application using the official state process.

Get started now: Code One’s Online Paramedic Recertification Program

NCCP Hour Breakdown (Common Model)

The NCCP framework splits required hours into three components. Exact topic lists and any limits on distributive (online) education can vary by state and by provider level—confirm details with your state EMS office.

• EMT: 40 hours total
  • National Component: 20 hours
  • State / Local Component: 10 hours
  • Individual Component: 10 hours
• Advanced EMT (AEMT): 50 hours total
  • National Component: 25 hours
  • State / Local Component: 12.5 hours
  • Individual Component: 12.5 hours
• Paramedic: 60 hours total
  • National Component: 30 hours
  • State / Local Component: 15 hours
  • Individual Component: 15 hours

Recertification Requirements in Virginia

Virginia follows the NREMT NCCP model for recertification. Even if you are state certified only, you will still follow the NREMT recertification plan. If you renew your NREMT through Prodigy, you will satisfy your Virginia requirements.

Accepted EMS Continuing Education

Prodigy is an approved online continuing education vendor. All online training must be completed through an approved CE vendor. All classes approved by VA OEMS are tagged in the Prodigy catalog as “Virginia”.

Register for EMS Recertification

BLS, ACLS & PALS Certification in Virginia

For EMS providers renewing AHA credentials, Code One uses the American Heart Association blended learning model for BLS, ACLS, and PALS. You complete HeartCode online and then come to our center for an individual skills appointment. Appointments are typically offered Monday through Saturday between 8am and 8pm at most Code One locations in Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours do I need for Virginia EMS recertification?

Typical NCCP totals are about 40 hours for EMR/EMT, 50 hours for AEMT, and 60 hours for Paramedic per recertification cycle. Your state or agency may require additional topics or documentation. For the final word, check official guidance from Virginia’s EMS office.

What is NCCP and how does it apply in Virginia?

The National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) is the framework many states use to organize recertification education into National, State/Local, and Individual components. Your state EMS office sets the final rules for what counts. For the final word, check official guidance from Virginia’s EMS office.

What kind of continuing education is accepted for renewal in Virginia?

CAPCE-accredited continuing education is widely accepted. Some states also accept state-approved education. Keep completion certificates in case your state requests documentation. For the final word, check official guidance from Virginia’s EMS office.

Where do I submit my renewal application in Virginia?

Submission steps vary by state. Use the state EMS office website and instructions referenced on this page for the most current renewal process and portal links. For the final word, check official guidance from Virginia’s EMS office.

Can I complete all of my continuing education online in Virginia?

In many cases, yes. Most states accept CAPCE-accredited continuing education and allow a significant portion of renewal education to be completed online. Always confirm any live/skills or distributive limits with the state EMS office. For the final word, check official guidance from Virginia’s EMS office.

Helpful Resources

• Virginia EMS Office Website
• NREMT Recertification Information

State EMS Department Contact

• Phone: 804-888-9100
• Email: emstechasst@vdh.virginia.gov
• Website: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/