Paramedic (NREMT) - National Registered Paramedic

The National Registered Paramedic (NRP) certification, administered by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), is a professional credential for paramedics who have demonstrated advanced skills and knowledge in emergency medical services (EMS). This certification indicates a high level of competency in handling complex pre-hospital emergency medical situations.

Completion Time: 3.5 hours

Cost: $175

Exam Format

The cognitive exam is computer-adaptive and contains 110-150 questions in areas such as airway, cardiology, trauma, medical, and EMS operations.

The psychomotor exam assesses skills in scenarios including patient assessment, cardiac management, trauma management, pediatric care, and more.

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• Successful completion of a state-approved paramedic program that meets or exceeds the National EMS Education Standards for Paramedics.

• Current CPR-BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent credential.

• Passing the NREMT cognitive (written) and psychomotor (skills) exams.

Certification Process

• Apply for NRP certification through the NREMT.

• Successfully pass the cognitive and psychomotor exams.

NRP certification requires renewal every 2 years. For the first renewal, the NRP certification is valid for 2 to 3 years, based on when applicants pass both the cognitive and psychomotor exams. If they pass the final exam between January 1 and June 30, their certification expires 2 years later on March 31st. If applicants pass the final exam between July 1 and December 31, their certification expires 3 years later on March 31. To renew, NRPs must retake the examination or complete Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Renewal Fees

• Renewal: $32 (until September 30, 2025)

• Renewal: $37 (effective October 1, 2025)

• Late Renewal: $50 + renewal fee

To recertify, NRPs must complete a total of 60 CEUs. Each CEU category has a minimum number of CEUs and a maximum number of Distributive Education (DE) hours. DE hours involve education where the educator and student aren’t interacting in real-time, such as during online courses and videos.

CEU categories:

• National: minimum 30 CEUs, with a maximum of 7 DEs

• Local: minimum 15 CEUs with a maximum of 7 DEs

• Individual: minimum 15 CEUs with a maximum of 10 DEs

For full CEU Requirements, refer to the Recertification Handbook.

Certification Handbook

For specific information regarding National Registered Paramedic certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, recertification processes, and approved educational programs, it is recommended to consult directly with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). NREMT provides comprehensive resources and standards for EMS professionals seeking national certification.

Career Opportunities

NRPs work in various settings, including ambulance services, fire departments, hospitals, and other emergency service environments.

They provide advanced medical care in emergencies, including administering medications, intravenous fluids, advanced airway management, and working under medical oversight.

The NREMT also offers the following certifications:

• Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMT)

• Emergency Medical Responders (EMR)

• Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT)