Initial EMT Certification

Prepare to apply

• Review EMS Policy 301 – EMT Certification for the eligibility, documentation and application requirements for initial California EMT certification.
• Next, sign in to the Online Certification and Accreditation System and verify your account and profile. Returning users should use their existing account or the account-recovery option—do not create a duplicate account. New users must create an account and complete their profile before beginning an application.
• The same account is used to submit applications, upload documents, pay fees, track application status and maintain required credentials throughout the certification or accreditation period.

Eligibility

Most initial applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Complete an approved EMT training program
• Hold current National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification
• Complete the required California Department of Justice and FBI background check
• Hold a current American Heart Association or American Red Cross BLS Provider card

Applicants qualifying through an out-of-state EMT, AEMT, paramedic, military or other credential should review the current EMT Certification Policy before applying.

Required Documents

Prepare electronic copies of:

• Current government-issued photo identification
• Current NREMT certificate
• EMT course-completion certificate
• Current American Heart Association or American Red Cross BLS Provider card
• Completed San Mateo County EMS Live Scan form showing the ATI number
• Criminal or disciplinary disclosure documents, if applicable

Certification Fee

The $125 initial-certification fee includes certification processing and the required Live Scan background check.

Application Process

Forms and Resources

Use these resources to review initial-certification requirements, complete the required background check and submit your application.

Questions or Application Assistance

Email EMScertifications@smcgov.org or call 650-573-2564.