State EMT certification is issued by OCEMS Medical Director and is recognized statewide. EMTs provide basic life support at the scene of medical emergencies and during transport to emergency departments and specialty centers. To be eligible for State EMT certification individuals need to complete a EMT training program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) EMT basic exam. See OCEMS Policy# 510.00 for more information.

A California and federal Department of Justice (DOJ) background check is required for State EMT certification. The background check must be completed by the applicant and received by OCEMS prior to accepting an application for certification. OCEMS recommends that each candidate for initial EMT certification call our office no less than three days after performing the live scan service to verify OCEMS receipt of background check results. See OCEMS Policy# 455.00 for more information.

OCEMS EMT accreditation is required for an EMT to work for a licensed ambulance provider in Orange County. OCEMS EMT accreditation can be obtained by attending an OCEMS approved EMT training program, a 24 hour refresher course or by an approved continuing education provider. The EMT accreditation course provides an overview of the Orange County EMS system and instruction in the basic life support expanded scope of practice allowed by the OCEMS Medical Director. OCEMS EMT accreditation expanded skills may only be performed while working in Orange County for a recognized EMS provider. See OCEMS Policy#720.00 § 404 for more information.

OCEMS Paramedic accreditation is required for a Paramedic to practice in the OCEMS system. Paramedic accreditation allows a California licensed Paramedic to perform the advanced life support skills and procedures approved by the OCEMS Medical Director. Paramedic accreditation is limited to only those licensed Paramedics employed by OCEMS approved ALS provider agencies. See OCEMS Policy# 430.10 for more information.