What Education is Required To Be an EMT

Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) provide the first point of contact for patients in emergency and life-threatening situations.

An EMT will be the one who checks for vital signs and performs life-saving services to sustain the life of the patient. Becoming an EMT in Florida requires education and training, as well as applying for licensure through the state.

Education and Training Requirements

According to the Florida Department of Health, EMTs need to either be trained in Florida or trained out-of-state with proof of National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) certification. The program needs to be approved by the state of Florida and successfully completed within two years of passing the Florida examination for EMTs or the NREMT examination. You will need to provide a copy of the course completion certificate. It’s important to apply for the examination within two years of taking the EMT course or completing the Florida-approved EMT program.

Florida Paramedic certification can be used to stand in for EMT training requirements as long as the certification is current and in good standing. HCI offers the EMT diploma (Basic) and the EMT diploma (Paramedic), which provides training through classroom lectures, labs and clinicals, and on-the-job field ride opportunities. HCI’s Associate of Science degree in Emergency Medical Services covers both EMT and Paramedic education requirements for a comprehensive program that prepares the graduate for enhanced career opportunities within the state of Florida.

Other Florida Requirements for EMTs

Florida EMTs also need to submit a copy of one of the following credentials to the Certification Unit: American Red Cross CPR for Professional Rescuer card, American Heart Association BLS for the Healthcare Provider, or CPR equivalent certification that meets approved standards from the Bureau of EMS pursuant to 64J-2.038, Florida Administrative Code. Both sides of these documents need to be copied and provided to the state of Florida for verification and processing.

Getting started as an EMT in Florida begins with your education and training. By the time you complete your diploma or associate degree program, you will be well prepared to handle the fast-paced and exciting world of emergency services in the health career field.