Colorado EMT, AEMT & Paramedic Certification Renewal Requirements
Colorado EMS certifications are regulated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Emergency Medical and Trauma Services. Colorado offers a unique 3-year renewal cycle and provides two renewal pathways: NREMT-based or state CE method.
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | CDPHE, Emergency Medical and Trauma Services |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 3 years |
| Renewal Window | Within 6 months of certificate expiration |
| NREMT Required | Required for initial certification; accepted (not required) for renewal |
| Online Renewal | Yes — OATH system |
| Intermediate-99 | Still recognized for existing holders |
Two Renewal Pathways
Option 1: NREMT Renewal (Simplest)
Present a current, valid NREMT registration at your practice level. Colorado accepts this as proof of CE completion and skills competency. No additional documentation needed.
Option 2: State CE Method
Complete the required CE hours for your level and demonstrate skills competency through a Colorado-recognized education center.
State CE Requirements (Option 2)
| Level | CE Hours Required (3-year cycle) |
|---|---|
| EMR | 12 hours |
| EMT | 36 hours |
| AEMT | 36 hours |
| EMT Intermediate-99 | 50 hours |
| Paramedic | 50 hours |
CE must include hours across required categories: pediatric, trauma, medical, cardiac, and operations content. A Colorado-recognized education center must verify your CE and perform a skills competency assessment.
Colorado-Specific Notes
- 3-year cycle. Colorado is one of the few states with a 3-year (not 2-year) EMS renewal cycle. Plan your CE accordingly.
- Intermediate-99 level. Colorado still recognizes existing Intermediate-99 certifications. Since NREMT no longer certifies at this level, renewal must use the state CE method with skills attestation.
- Skills competency verification is required for the state CE method. Contact a recognized education center to arrange this.
- Lapsed more than 6 months: You're considered a reinstatement applicant and must complete the full initial certification process, including a valid NREMT registration.
- Online-only ACLS and CPR are not accepted. These cards must have a live skills competency component to be valid in Colorado.
- CAPCE-accredited courses are accepted.
How to Renew
- Choose your renewal pathway (NREMT or state CE method)
- If using state CE: complete required hours and skills verification through a recognized education center
- Log in to your OATH account
- Submit your renewal application and upload required documentation
- Pay the renewal fee
Fees
Contact CDPHE for current fee schedules. Renewal applications are submitted through the OATH online system.
Contact Information
CDPHE — Emergency Medical and Trauma Services
- Website: cdphe.colorado.gov/ems
- Email: cdphe.emtcert@state.co.us
- Phone: (303) 692-2980
This page is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change — always verify current requirements with CDPHE before renewing. Last reviewed March 2026.
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