Florida Paramedic Reciprocity

Once you become a Paramedic in one state, does that training and certification transfer if you move to another state? The answer to this is what we refer to as Paramedic reciprocity. Maybe you are moving from a different state to become a Paramedic in Florida.

Or, you plan to leave Florida after you train as a Paramedic here and want to know if your certification still counts in another state. Let’s discuss Florida Paramedic reciprocity in more depth.

How Reciprocity Works

Each state makes their own requirements for working as a Paramedic in that state. That means that even neighboring states can have slightly different requirements for their Paramedics. Sometimes it is a difference in the type of examination taken, but it can also be a difference in education requirements or training specifications.

For example, the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) is enough to become a Paramedic in states that also use the NREMT exam for certifying their EMTs and Paramedics. States that do not accept the NREMT may require that you take additional training and pass their state-approved certification exams in order to work as a Paramedic. States that use the NREMT have reciprocity, which means that it’s easy to move from state to state as a certified Paramedic. States that have their own individual standards for Paramedics are considered to have non-reciprocity.

States and Reciprocity

Thirteen states do not recognize the NREMT for Paramedics. So, if you have been certified via the NREMT, you will have to complete additional requirements to be a Paramedic in the following states: Alaska, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, Utah, and Wyoming. If you move to any of these states after becoming a Paramedic in Florida, you might have to take a refresher course, pass their state exam, do more training, or have a sponsor for certain positions.

Some states, like California, have variations for reciprocity even across municipalities. This is why it is always good to contact the state’s EMS authority and ask about their requirements for Paramedic certification. You can then prepare for any additional training or exams that you will have to take in order to meet their licensing requirements.