How To Become an EMT

YOUR PATH TO A CAREER IN EMS

HOW TO BECOME AN EMT

Your Journey Starts Here.

From your first day in the classroom to earning your EMT license, we're here to help you take the next step toward a rewarding career in emergency medical services.

Becoming an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in Rhode Island is a structured process that prepares you to respond to 911 calls, provide lifesaving care, and begin a career in EMS.

At RICTC, our experiences instructors guide students through the education and skills needed to prepare for EMT certification and licensure.

Complete guide to becoming an EMT in Rhode Island

Becoming an EMT in Rhode Island is a structured process that prepares you to respond to 911 calls, provide lifesaving care, and begin a career in EMS.

MEET BASIC REQUIREMENTS

To enroll in an EMT program, you must:

Be at least 18 years old to take the NREMT exam
Be at least 17 years old to take the EMT class
Have a high school diploma or GED
Pass a background check
By physically capable of performing EMS duties

SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE AN APPROVED EMT TRAINING PROGRAM

You must attend and complete a state-approved EMT course that includes:

Classroom instruction
Hands-on skills training
Clinical and field internship
Programs typically take 3-6 months, depending on schedule.

PASS THE NATIONAL REGISTRY EMT CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

After completing and passing the EMT course, you will become eligible to:

Apply for certification through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).
You'll need to pass the computer-based NREMT EMT examination and satisfy the state-approved Basic Life Support (BLS) skills competency requirements.
Your program director must also verify your successful course completion.

APPLY FOR RHODE ISLAND LICENSURE

Once you pass the NREMT, you are eligible to apply for Rhode Island licensure:

Download and print out the appropriate licensure application.
Complete the application.
Attached the required documentation.
Complete any state specific requirements.

START YOUR EMS CAREER

EMTs can work in a various entities:

Ambulance services
Fire departments
Hospitals
Private EMS organizations

Your EMT license can also serve as the foundation for advancing your education to the AEMT, AEMT-Cardiac, or Paramedic level.