Become an EMT in Colorado with How To NREMT

Becoming a certified EMT in Colorado doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re completing your training, preparing for the NREMT exam, or retaking the exam, we’ll outline the specific requirements and guide you on how to successfully pass the most important test.

Here's the straightforward reality: Successfully passing the NREMT cognitive exam means you're already 90% on your way to obtaining EMT certification in Colorado. This is where How To NREMT can assist you.

Our primary goal is to guide candidates in successfully passing the NREMT exam on their first attempt. Our full 10-step training strategy, NREMT practice exams, and AI-powered EMT tutors are designed for students seeking actual results rather than just standard guidance.

Here’s what you need to do to become an EMT in Colorado:

Step 1: Colorado Requirements for EMT Candidates

In Colorado, you must meet the following requirements to become an EMT:

  • Meet the age requirement, i.e., 18 years
  • Have CPR certification from a healthcare provider
  • Complete Colorado-approved training
  • Pass the NREMT cognitive exam
  • Pass a fingerprint-based background check
  • Evidence of lawful presence in the USA, such as a passport or driver’s license

Step 2: Pass a Colorado-Approved Course

If you’re 18 years old and have passed background checks, you can proceed to enroll in a state-approved course. The EMT training courses are provided by EMS academies, community colleges, and technical schools. For further information on EMT training courses in Colorado, check out the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

The director will verify your course completion so you can take the NREMT cognitive exam. Haven’t started your cognitive exam prep yet? Get started with How to NREMT.

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Step 3: Prepare for the Updated NREMT Cognitive Exam

The NREMT cognitive exam is a computer-adaptive test (CAT), meaning the difficulty level of each question depends on how you answer the preceding question. The test is administered by Pearson VUE across the US. You must answer 70-120 questions to pass the exam.

The National Registry has updated the course domain to align with current patient care needs. The updated course domains include:

  • Scene Size-Up and Safety
  • Primary Assessment
  • Secondary Assessment
  • Patient Treatment and Transport
  • Operations

Note: Items related to pediatric patient care are integrated throughout all domains.

As of April 2025, all candidates looking to take the NREMT cognitive exam must prepare for the aforementioned domains.

At How To NREMT, we don’t just offer NREMT prep tools, we offer strategy-based resources to build your knowledge and allow you to think like a real responder. Our NREMT cognitive exam prep features:

  • A 10-step training plan that walks you through the preparation
  • 2000+ NREMT exam practice questions that mirror the National Registry scoring format
  • AI-powered EMT tutor to pinpoint your strong and weak areas

Whether you’re taking your first attempt or retesting after multiple attempts, our complete training course supports your journey.

Step 4: Apply for EMT License in Colorado

After completing your NREMT test prep and passing your NREMT cognitive exam, you can apply for your EMT license.  Submit all the necessary documents to the Colorado Department of Health, including:

  • State-approved EMT course completion
  • NREMT exam result
  • CPR certification
  • State-approved background check
  • Skills verification form

Submit your application and pay the fees. Be sure to use the right name as on your CPR and NREMT documents to avoid delays.

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NREMT vs. Colorado EMT Requirements: Know the Differences

Requirement NREMT (National) Colorado (State)
Cognitive exam Required Required
Psychomotor skills Not required State-required
CPR certification Required Required
Background check Not required Required
State licensure application Not required Required through CDPHE

Note: The State of Colorado requires a state-verified psychomotor skills evaluation, even though NREMT no longer requires hands-on skills testing.

How To NREMT: Designed to Support First-Timers and Retesters!

At How To NREMT, we have seen many students struggling to pass the exam, not because they didn’t study. They fail because they didn’t get the right feedback, study the right way, or understand the adaptive-test logic.

How To NREMT fixes these issues with:

  • Our exam simulation system that prepares you for the test day
  • Our real-time feedback that pinpoints areas you need to improve
  • Our AI-powered EMT tutor gives quick feedback on every topic
  • Our 10-step comprehensive plan is curated to support your preparation and build your knowledge base.
  • Live 14-Day EMT Boot Camp via Zoom, focused, interactive sessions designed to strengthen weak areas and boost exam readiness.

Thousands of candidates are already using our training plan and building knowledge and confidence.