5 Easy Steps to Renew Your Lapsed NREMT Certification

Understanding the renewal process can be challenging, especially if your certification has lapsed. Many students ask if and how they can regain their certifications after it has lapsed. 

Please refer to our comprehensive, step-by-step guide on renewing your lapsed NREMT certification. 

What Does a Lapsed Certification Mean?

A lapsed NREMT certification means that your certification has expired. 

This typically happens if you fail to renew it before your expiration date or decide not to renew your National certification. 

When your certification lapses, the NREMT no longer recognizes you as a certified EMT or paramedic. This can have serious implications for your career, and you may only be allowed to practice once you renew your lapsed national certification. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing Your Lapsed Certification

Renewing your lapsed NREMT certification involves several steps.

Let’s start with a TL;DR summary:

• • Complete continuing education requirements (hours based on cert level) 

• • Prepare for cognitive and/or psychomotor exams (this will vary on your situation) 

• • Submit your application and pay the NREMT application fees

• • Document and submit proof of continuing education (will have to email the NREMT or fill out a form) 

• • Check your application status and wait for your letter(s) to test

Step 1: Complete Continuing Education Requirements

Completing the required continuing education hours is the first step in renewing your lapsed NREMT certification. These hours are necessary to ensure that you stay updated with the latest medical protocols and guidelines.

Continuing education can be completed through various methods. These include CAPCE and/or state-approved online courses (like ours), in-person workshops, and scenario-based training. If you don’t choose us, at least choose accredited providers for your continuing education! 

Remember, the required hours may vary depending on your certification level. Always check the NREMT website for the most accurate information.

Step 2: Prepare for Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams

The next step is to prepare for the cognitive (knowledge) and psychomotor (skills) exams.

The cognitive exam is a computer-based test that covers topics like airway management, cardiology, trauma, and other national standard subjects. The psychomotor exam, on the other hand, evaluates your ability to perform emergency medical procedures.

There are various resources available to help you prepare for these exams. These include study guides, practice tests, and review courses.

_{The NREMT has started to phase out the psychomotor exams, which has also changed the lapsed process. Links to those changes are below for each certification level. If you are already state-certified, you are not required to complete a psychomotor exam. You can submit your VALID state certification to satisfy this requirement.}  

Step 3: Application and Fees

The third step is to submit your application and pay the fees. You can complete the application online through the NREMT website. Either create a new account or, for ease, utilize the one made previously. 

The fees vary depending on your certification level. For the most current fee information, check the NREMT website. These fees are also charged for each attempt to pass your cognitive exam, so ensure you are prepared to test for your exam.  

Step 4: Document and Submit Proof of Continuing Education

Once you’ve completed your continuing education and passed the cognitive and/or psychomotor exams, you must document and submit proof of your State license (if applicable) and continuing education certificates to the National Registry of EMTs. This proof is necessary for the NREMT to verify that you’ve met their renewal requirements.

You can submit your proof by emailing the NREMT at support@nremt.org. 

They also have a handy dandy form on their website to help you better submit your documentation! 

Step 5: Check Certification Status

After submitting your application and payment, you can check your status online through your NREMT account. Once your application is approved, you will receive your ‘Ready to Test’ letter authorizing you to schedule your cognitive exam at a Person Vue testing center.

What are the Requirements for My Certification Level? 

• • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
    
    • • 40 hours of state or CAPCE-approved continuing education hours
      • Current ‘CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers’ credential
      • Skills competency must be verified (see more here). Cognitive (knowledge) examination and a state-approved psychomotor (skills) examination. Or a copy of a state EMT license/certification if never nationally certified as an EMT

• • Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT)
    
    • • 50 hours of state or CAPCE-approved continuing education hours 
      • Skills competency must be verified (see more here). With the removal of the psychomotor (skills) exams, this got more confusing. Always contact the NREMT directly with questions!
      • Current ‘CPR-ALS for Healthcare Providers’ credential

• • Paramedic
    
    • • 60 hours of state or CAPCE-approved continuing education hours
      • Skills competency must be verified (see more here). With the removal of the psychomotor (skills) exams, this got more confusing. Always contact the NREMT directly with questions!
      • Current ‘CPR-ALS for ‘Healthcare Providers’ credential

Remember, maintaining your NREMT certification is crucial for your career in EMS. Stay organized, keep track of your requirements, and start your recertification process early every two years to avoid another certification lapse!