EMS > Certification & Accreditation

EMT Initial Certification Process

1.   Prepare your documents on the device you will complete your application on (JPG or PDF format only).                  This will make the process smoother

2.   You must be 18 years old or older to be certified as an EMT in California

3.   Must complete a Live Scan in the State of California

4.   Application: EMT or AEMT Initial Application online

5.   You will be required to upload the following:

• Current government-issued photo ID (driver’s license/passport)
• Current CPR card – Basic Life Support (BLS) Providers, Healthcare Providers, or Professional                Rescuers
• Current National Registry card WITH

           -  EMT course completion certificate from an approved California EMT course that is less than two                             (2) years old

                 OR

           -  EMT course completion certificate from an approved Out-of-State Program that is less than 2 years old

                 OR

           -  Current and valid Out-of-State EMT State card

                 OR

           -  Current and valid Out-of-State or National Registry Advanced EMT or Paramedic certificate

                 OR

           -  Current and valid California Advanced EMT or EMT-II certification or a current and valid California                           Paramedic license

Note regarding the 2017 EMT skills enhancement:

After July 1, 2019, all Initial EMTs must provide documentation that clearly states the recipient was trained on the following skills: (this will often be included on the applicant's course completion certificate)

1.  The use and administration of naloxone or other opioid antagonist
2.  The use and administration of epinephrine by auto-injector
3.  The use of a glucometer

            (If the course completion certificate does not clearly state that the recipient was trained in these                  skills, a separate document(s) must be provided which confirms training in these skills.)

         If applicable, provide written explanations, court records and/or police reports as requested during the         application process

6.    Sign and submit your application

7.    Pay your application fees

Online applications will not be processed until all required documentation has been uploaded and the appropriate fee is received by the County of San Diego Emergency Medical Services.

The application process may take up to forty-five (45) days from the date a completed application is received. Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email notifying you that you may log in to your profile to print your County of San Diego EMT ID card. This certification is valid throughout the County of San Diego.

Certification Services inquires can be emailed to: EMSCertifications@sdcounty.ca.gov