Before you can start training to become an EMT, you must first ensure you meet the minimum requirements physically, financially, and legally. The license requirements for the State of Texas are detailed below. Click here to find license info for other US states.
License Requirements
When becoming an EMT in Texas, certain requirements must be met and maintained. One of the most important is having a clean background. This means that any criminal offenses may disqualify you from attaining your state certification. Things like drug-related charges, DUI/DWI, and felonies can disqualify an individual from being issued their state license. Those with questionable backgrounds will want to check with the state EMS office before committing time and money to training. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
The State of Texas requires emergency medical personnel be licensed with the Texas Department of State Health Services. To qualify to submit the license application, the applicant must have already taken and passed the National Registry (NREMT) examination. To qualify to take the NREMT exams, the applicant must have previously completed an approved NREMT training program, like PERCOMonline’s EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic programs.
Other Texas EMS license application requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age when applying
- Submit fingerprints for TX/FBI criminal check
- Must have a high school or GED diploma (initial EMT Basic licenses)
- Submit fee with application
Paramedic license applications must also include proof of a 2-year EMS degree or a 4-year degree in any field.
To learn more about how to apply in Texas for EMS licenses, please click here -> https://www.dshs.texas.gov/emstraumasystems/certinfo.shtm
Reciprocity
What is reciprocity?
Answer: Reciprocity is the process by which an EMT licensed in one state can apply for and receive license in another state without having to complete all of the training and testing requirements again. In Texas, EMTs can apply for reciprocity if they meet certain requirements, such as holding a current license in another state and completing any additional training or testing required by Texas.
Military members, veterans, and military spouses who received their training in the military and have a current NREMT certification must also use the reciprocity process for their Texas license. To learn more about this process, please click here -> https://www.dshs.texas.gov/emstraumasystems/stdrecip.shtm
PERCOMonline Training For Texas Students
Texas licenses PERCOMonline as a training facility for NREMT EMT Basic, Advanced EMT, Paramedic, and EMS Instructor. If you are an Advanced EMT wishing to become a Paramedic, please read about our Advanced Placement for Paramedic here.
Texas approves PERCOMOnline for clinical affiliation agreements with hospitals and EMS providers within the state.