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

Becoming a certified EMT in West Virginia is an excellent first step into the rewarding field of emergency medical services. We're here to help you navigate the process with confidence.

At How To NREMT, we are dedicated to helping you pass the NREMT cognitive exam and confidently earn your state license. We believe the best way to study for the NREMT is with a structured approach and personalized support.

Our comprehensive program includes a national training plan designed to thoroughly prepare you. You'll benefit from access to NREMT prep tutor expertise, ensuring you receive targeted guidance on challenging topics. Additionally, our AI-powered support tools enhance your learning experience. We also provide an in-depth understanding of West Virginia's specific certification process, ensuring you're fully informed and ready for every requirement.

Reach out to us for details, or read below for the guide.

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Step 1: Check West Virginia’s EMT Eligibility Requirements

Before enrolling in a state-approved EMT program, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Be physically and mentally capable of performing EMT duties
  • Possess a valid driver’s license (recommended for employment)
  • Be able to read, write, and communicate in English
  • Have a clean background—criminal history may impact certification eligibility

West Virginia requires fingerprint-based background checks during the licensing process. Individuals with certain convictions, particularly those involving violence or vulnerable individuals, may be denied certification.

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

West Virginia EMT candidates must complete a training course approved by the West Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services (WVOEMS). These programs follow the National EMS Education Standards and are offered by:

  • Community colleges
  • Technical center
  • Local EMS agencies and training institutions

A typical EMT-Basic course in West Virginia includes:

  • At least 150 hours of didactic and hands-on training
  • Clinical ride-alongs or hospital observations
  • Scenario-based assessments
  • Final skills verification within the program

Approved training providers include Bridge Valley Community and Technical College, New River CTC, and RESA regional training centers.

Step 3: Obtain Your CPR Certification

All EMT students must hold a valid CPR certification at the BLS (Basic Life Support) level. Acceptable certifications include American Heart Association BLS or Red Cross equivalent courses that include hands-on skills verification.

Most EMT training programs in West Virginia either include CPR certification or provide guidance on where to obtain it. Your CPR card must remain current throughout your program and NREMT testing period.

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Step 4: Pass the NREMT Cognitive Exam

After completing your EMT training, you’ll be eligible to take the National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) cognitive exam, which is required for state certification.

As of April 2025, the updated NREMT exam includes:

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

The exam now features Technology-Enhanced Items (TEIs) such as:

  • Drag-and-drop scenarios
  • Multi-step decision making
  • Clinical judgment-based tasks

To succeed on this new format, you'll need more than memorization. With How To NREMT’s prep tools—realistic exam simulations, targeted video lessons, and personal tutoring—you’ll build the critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills needed to pass.

Step 5: Complete Skills Verification (Conducted by Your Program)

West Virginia no longer requires a separate psychomotor exam administered by the state. Instead, EMT students are evaluated on their skills as part of their EMT course. Your instructor will conduct a Terminal Competency Evaluation before issuing a course completion certificate.

You’ll be tested on essential EMT skills, including:

  • Airway management and suction
  • CPR and AED operation
  • Bleeding control and splinting
  • Patient assessments (medical and trauma)
  • Oxygen administration

Once you’ve passed these evaluations, you’ll be cleared to move forward with certification.

Step 6: Apply for Your West Virginia EMT License

After passing the NREMT exam, you’ll apply for your West Virginia EMT certification through the WVOEMS Initial Certification Application Portal. You will need to:

  1. Create an account here
  2. Upload your NREMT exam results and course completion certificate
  3. Submit your CPR card and valid ID
  4. Complete fingerprinting and background checks
  5. Await final approval and license issuance

Your certification is valid for two years and includes continuing education requirements for renewal.

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National vs. West Virginia EMT Requirements

Requirement NREMT West Virginia OEMS
Minimum Age Varies 18 years old
Education National EMS program WVOEMS-approved program
CPR Certification Required – AHA BLS or equivalent Same requirement
Skills Testing Verified by training program Included in course
Cognitive Exam NREMT EMT exam via Pearson VUE Required for certification
Application Through NREMT portal WVOEMS licensing portal

How To NREMT Makes Exam Prep Simple

At How To NREMT, we help West Virginia students succeed—whether it’s your first time or a retake. Our EMT national training plan breaks the process into simple, focused steps that cover exactly what the NREMT now tests.

With us, you’ll get:

  • NREMT-aligned practice exams featuring the latest TEI formats
  • Interactive video lessons that explain complex concepts in plain English
  • Over 2,000 scenario-style questions
  • 24/7 AI tutor “Mr. How To” to guide your studying
  • Tutoring sessions with certified EMT instructors
  • A study plan tracker to monitor your progress

Learn more about our full-access membership here. 

NREMT Boot Camp – Live via Zoom

Need to prepare fast? Our 7 or 14-day EMT Boot Camp is designed to give you a complete review of NREMT topics, test strategies, and interactive practice in a live, virtual classroom. Perfect for last-minute prep or retest support.