District of Columbia EMT, AEMT & Paramedic Certification Renewal Requirements
District of Columbia EMS certifications are regulated by the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Administration (HEPRA), under DC Health (Department of Health). DC requires NREMT certification and follows the NCCP model for continuing education.
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | DC Health — HEPRA / EMS Division |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years |
| Expiration | June 30 |
| NREMT Required | Yes — valid NREMT certification at your level |
| Renewal Deadline | Application due by May 31 |
| Phone | (202) 442-5955 |
| ems.doh@dc.gov |
Continuing Education Requirements (NREMT NCCP)
| Level | Total CE Hours (2-year cycle) |
|---|---|
| EMR | 16 hours |
| EMT | 40 hours |
| AEMT | 50 hours |
| Paramedic | 60 hours |
DC follows the standard NREMT NCCP model with National, State/Local, and Individual components.
DC-Specific Notes
- NREMT required at all levels. You must hold a valid NREMT certification card at your certification level.
- June 30 expiration for all certificates. All EMS provider certificates expire on June 30 of the renewal year.
- Application deadline is May 31 — one month before expiration. Submit all renewal items to the Director by this date.
- Sponsoring organization required. DC EMS providers must be affiliated with a sponsoring organization.
- Minimum age 18 for certification.
- CAPCE-accredited courses accepted.
- DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) is the primary EMS agency, but certification is through DC Health.
- ACLS and CPR required for advanced-level providers.
How to Renew
- Complete NREMT NCCP CE hours for your level
- Maintain current NREMT certification
- Maintain current CPR (and ACLS for advanced levels)
- Submit renewal application to DC Health by May 31
- Pay the renewal fee
Contact Information
DC Health — Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Administration
- Website: dchealth.dc.gov
- EMS Education: dchealth.dc.gov/page/emergency-medical-services-educational-institutions
- NREMT State Page: nremt.org — DC
- Address: 899 N. Capitol St. NE, Suite 570, Washington, DC 20002
- Phone: (202) 442-5955
- Email: ems.doh@dc.gov
This page is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change — always verify current requirements with DC Health before renewing. Last reviewed March 2026.
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