EMT-Paramedic training courses last between 750 and 2,000 hours. They also need a driver's license. Suggested high school courses include driver education, health, and science. Military training as a medic is good preparation. EMTs who are trained by the fire or police departments must be qualified as firefighters or police officers.
All states require EMTs to be certified.
Some states do their own certification. However, most states use the standards set by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. Their standards are given below. All EMTs must be at least 18 years old and have a valid drivers license. EMT-Basic graduates must pass a written and a practical examination.