2026 data New York board official source

New York Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Provides emergency medical care and transportation. Requires NREMT exam.

What the New York data shows for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)s

To practice as an emergency medical technician (emt) in New York, the state licensing board requires 167 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NREMT Certification Exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under New York's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "EMT Training Course".

Budget $113 to get started, plus $99 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 36 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, emergency medical technician (emt)s should know: Interstate EMS Compact: 30+ states.

Licensing Requirements in New York

Education / Training Hours
EMT Training Course
167 hours
Exam Requirement
NREMT Certification Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$113
Renewal Fee
$99
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
36 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New York licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in New York?
New York requires 167 education/training hours, passing an exam (NREMT Certification Exam), and an initial fee of $113. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in New York?
To become a licensed emergency medical technician (emt) in New York, you must meet the state's requirements including 167 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New York licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license to New York from another state?
For emergency medical technician (emt)s, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Interstate EMS Compact: 30+ states. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the New York licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does New York require a background check for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) licensing?
Yes, New York requires a criminal background check as part of the emergency medical technician (emt) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in New York?
New York ties continued emergency medical technician (emt) licensure to 36 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $99 renewal fee.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites