Become an EMT in Virginia: Step-by-Step Guidance from Training to Certification

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a career in emergency medical services, becoming a certified EMT in Virginia is a smart move.

With How To NREMT’s structured EMT national training plan, access to EMT tutors and AI-based support, and a deep understanding of Virginia’s licensing process, you’ll feel more prepared and confident to pass the NREMT cognitive exam and earn your state license.

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Step 1: Make Sure You Meet Virginia’s Eligibility Requirements

Before enrolling in a Virginia EMT program, you’ll need to meet the following basic criteria:

  • Be at least 16 years old at the time of enrollment (those under 18 will need parental consent)
  • Be proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English
  • Have or obtain a current CPR certification(American Heart Association BLS or equivalent)
  • Be physically and mentally fit to perform all essential EMT functions
  • Be free of any criminal convictions that would disqualify you under state regulations

Some convictions—particularly those involving violence, abuse, or harm to vulnerable individuals—may prevent certification. Be prepared to undergo a background check during the licensing process.

Step 2: Enroll in a Virginia-Approved EMT Training Program

Virginia requires all EMT candidates to complete an Office of EMS (OEMS)-approved training course. These courses follow the National EMS Education Standards and are offered by community colleges, EMS agencies, regional training councils, and fire departments across the state.

A standard EMT-Basic program includes:

  • 150+ hours of instruction
  • Hands-on skills labs and simulations
  • Scenario-based assessments
  • Final competency testing of psychomotor skills (within the course)

Some top Virginia EMT programs include:

  • Northern Virginia Community College
  • Germanna Community College
  • Tidewater Community College
  • Local fire/EMS agencies and rescue squads

Before you choose a program, make sure it’s OEMS-approved so that you’re eligible for certification.

Step 3: Obtain a CPR Certification

A current CPR card is mandatory for EMT certification in Virginia. You’ll need a BLS-level certification that includes in-person skills verification (such as AHA BLS for Healthcare Providers or equivalent).

Most Virginia EMT courses either include CPR certification as part of the program or offer guidance on where to obtain it. Your card must remain current through your course and your NREMT testing period.

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Step 4: Pass the NREMT Cognitive Exam

Once you’ve completed your EMT course and passed your local skills evaluations, you’ll be eligible to take the NREMT cognitive exam—a national exam required for state certification.

As of April 2025, the NREMT exam has been updated and now includes:

  • Scene Size-Up & Safety (15–19%)
  • Primary Assessment (39–43%)
  • Secondary Assessment (5–9%)
  • Patient Treatment & Transport (20–24%)
  • Operations (10–14%)

In addition to the content changes, the new exam now includes Technology-Enhanced Items (TEIs)—interactive question formats such as drag-and-drop, multi-select, and sequencing tasks. These changes are designed to better reflect real-world patient care decisions.

To succeed, you’ll want to go beyond memorization. With How To NREMT’s prep tools, including mock exams, flashcards, and a personal NREMT tutor, you’ll build the kind of understanding and confidence needed to pass.

Step 5: Complete Skills Testing (Embedded in Your Program)

Virginia does not require a separate state-run psychomotor (skills) exam. Instead, all EMT programs in the state include a Terminal Competency Evaluation, which is conducted by your instructors before you finish the course.

This ensures that you can perform essential EMT skills like:

  • Patient assessment
  • CPR and AED use
  • Bleeding control
  • Airway management
  • Immobilization techniques

Once you’ve passed this internal evaluation and receive your course completion documentation, you’re ready to move forward with testing and certification.

Step 6: Get Your Virginia EMT License

If you completed your EMT course in Virginia and passed the NREMT exam, the state will automatically issue your Virginia EMT certification. You don’t need to submit a separate application for in-state training.

However, if you completed your training outside Virginia or are applying via reciprocity, you’ll need to:

  1. Create an account on the Virginia EMS Portal
  2. Submit a Reciprocity Application
  3. Upload supporting documents (NREMT card, CPR certification, valid ID)
  4. Undergo a background check and wait for approval

Once licensed, you’ll receive a Virginia EMS certification number and be eligible to practice as an EMT throughout the state.

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National vs. Virginia EMT Requirements

Requirement National Registry (NREMT) Virginia OEMS
Minimum Age Varies by state 16 years old (with parental consent if under 18)
Education NREMT-approved EMT program OEMS-approved Virginia EMT program
CPR Certification Required – AHA or equivalent Required – OEMS-approved BLS card
Skills Testing Verified by program (no longer separate psychomotor) Terminal Competency evaluated within the course
Cognitive Exam NREMT EMT exam (Pearson VUE or online proctored) Same – passing results forwarded to Virginia OEMS
Application Online via NREMT Automatic if trained in Virginia; portal if out-of-state
License Issuance National certification only Virginia license issued by OEMS

How To NREMT Makes Success Simple

You don’t have to prepare for the NREMT exam alone. At How To NREMT, we offer a comprehensive, easy-to-follow 10-step EMT national training plan designed to help you pass with confidence.

With us, you get:

  • Realistic practice exams with questions aligned to the new NREMT format
  • Interactive video lessons that break down complex topics clearly
  • AI tutor “Mr. How To”available 24/7 to answer your questions
  • Live EMT tutors to guide you in group coaching sessions
  • 2,000+ exam-style questions, including TEIs like drag-and-drop and scenario-based formats
  • Structured progress tracking to keep your study plan on track

Whether you’re preparing for your first attempt or returning after a previous try, our tools are built to meet you where you are and help you move forward.

NREMT Boot Camp (Live on Zoom)

Need to prepare fast? Join our intensive 7 or 14-day boot camp for EMT. It’s designed for focused review, live instruction, and maximum results before test day.