How Much Training is Required to Become an Intermediate EMT?

Become an intermediate emergency medical technician.

Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) become certified in three stages: first responder, basic and intermediate. You can visit a paramedic at a local fire station to find out about Intermediate EMT jobs in your area.

First Responder

Train as a First Responder. It will take approximately 40 to 60 hours. Depending on the training cycle, some trainees can finish in less than four days. Although it is not mandatory, you should have a high school diploma or GED. Many medical classes require basic skills like reading and math.

EMT --- Basic

Attend basic EMT training. It will take approximately 120 hours. Most states incorporate class in cardiac emergencies and respiratory management. Basic EMTs must pass ambulance driver training, too. Different states require different driver certificates. Visit the state of California's Department of Motor Vehicles website for details about EMT-1, EMT-P, and EMT-IV certificates, for example.

EMT --- Intermediate

Complete the various levels of Intermediate EMT training. Most areas require trainees to attend 55 hours of clinical training.

Check with NREMT

Every state nationwide requires an Intermediate EMT to acquire some form of license. Each state's criteria may vary, however. Visit the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) website about the NREMT Exam.

References

• EMT National Training: EMT Practice Tests
• U.S. Department of Labor: Occupational Outlook Handbook - Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics
• Education-Portal: First Responder Training
• Education-Portal: EMT --- Basic Training
• Education-Portal: EMT --- Intermediate Training

Resources

• California: California Department of Motor Vehicles
• National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT)
• Homeland Security: First Responder Training