Kentucky EMT, AEMT & Paramedic Certification Renewal Requirements
Kentucky EMS certifications are regulated by the Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS). Kentucky requires current NREMT certification for renewal at all levels and follows the NREMT NCCP model, with additional Kentucky-specific mandatory training courses.
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years |
| Renewal Deadline | December 31, two years from issuance |
| NREMT Required | Yes — current NREMT certification required for renewal |
| Online Renewal | Yes — KEMSIS portal |
| Background Check | AOC check processed automatically at renewal |
Continuing Education Requirements
Kentucky requires current NREMT certification plus completion of the NREMT NCCP:
| Level | Total CE Hours | KBEMS National Component |
|---|---|---|
| EMR | 17 hours total | 8 hours NCCP |
| EMT | 24 hours total | 20 hours NCCP |
| AEMT | 48 hours total | 25 hours NCCP |
| Paramedic | 60 hours total | 30 hours NCCP |
Important change: Starting January 1, 2026, KBEMS will only accept the NREMT NCCP 2025 model. Only the National Component hours are required by KBEMS at each level.
Mandatory Kentucky Training (All Levels)
In addition to NCCP CE, all Kentucky EMS providers must complete these three free KBEMS-approved online courses every 2-year renewal cycle:
- HIV/AIDS Training — Required by KRS 311A.120. Free course available on the KBEMS website.
- Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma (PAHT) — 1 hour, required every 2 years. Free course available on the KBEMS website.
- Awareness of Sexual Violence (ASV) — 1 hour, required every 2 years. Free course available on the KBEMS website.
These courses are free and available online through the KBEMS website.
Kentucky-Specific Notes
- NREMT certification is mandatory for renewal. Unlike many states, Kentucky requires you to maintain current NREMT certification — state CE alone is not sufficient.
- Three mandatory state courses must be completed every renewal cycle in addition to NREMT NCCP CE.
- Background check: KBEMS uses the AOC (Administrative Office of the Courts) background check, which is processed automatically at renewal. No action needed on your part for renewals (initial applications use Viewpoint Screening).
- Critical Care Paramedic endorsement available with CCP-C certification. Transition applications for existing endorsement holders expected in 2026.
- CAPCE-accredited courses accepted for NCCP CE hours.
- Renewal notices sent 60 days before expiration via KEMSIS email.
How to Renew
- Maintain current NREMT certification at your level
- Complete all NCCP CE hours
- Complete the 3 mandatory Kentucky online courses (HIV/AIDS, PAHT, ASV)
- Log in to the KBEMS/KEMSIS portal
- Submit renewal application
- Pay the renewal fee
- AOC background check processes automatically
Contact Information
Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services
- Website: kbems.ky.gov
- Requirements: kbems.ky.gov — Kentucky Requirements
- Phone: (859) 256-3565 or (866) 97-KBEMS
- Address: 300 N. Main Street, Versailles, KY 40383
This page is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change — always verify current requirements with KBEMS before renewing. Last reviewed March 2026.
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