RILast updated 2026-03-25
Rhode Island EMT, AEMT & Paramedic License Renewal Requirements
Rhode Island EMS licenses are regulated by the Division of Emergency Medical Services, under the Rhode Island Department of Health. Rhode Island requires NREMT certification for most levels and has a unique EMT-Cardiac level between EMT and Paramedic.
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Body | RI Department of Health, Division of EMS |
| Renewal Cycle | Every 2 years |
| NREMT Required | Yes — for EMR, AEMT, and Paramedic; EMTs licensed before Jan 2012 may use state-only CE |
| Unique Levels | EMT-Cardiac (state-specific intermediate level) |
| Phone | (401) 222-2401 |
Continuing Education Requirements (NREMT NCCP)
| Level | Total CE Hours |
|---|---|
| EMR | 16 hours |
| EMT | 40 hours |
| AEMT/EMT-Cardiac | 50 hours |
| Paramedic | 60 hours |
Renewal Pathways
- EMR: Must maintain NREMT certification as an EMR
- EMT (licensed after Jan 1, 2012): Must maintain NREMT certification as an EMT
- EMT (licensed before Jan 1, 2012): May complete the Rhode Island Continued Competency Program (RI-CCP) OR maintain NREMT certification
- AEMT: Must maintain NREMT certification as an AEMT
- Paramedic: Must maintain NREMT certification as a Paramedic
Rhode Island-Specific Notes
- EMT-Cardiac is unique to Rhode Island. This intermediate-level certification sits between EMT and Paramedic. The EMT-Cardiac exam is administered by the RI Department of Health (not NREMT) and scheduled monthly.
- Pre-2012 EMT grandfathering. EMTs licensed before January 1, 2012, who do not hold NREMT may use the state RI-CCP pathway.
- NREMT does not automatically renew state license. You must separately apply for state renewal even if NREMT is current.
- License valid for 2 years. If not recertified within 180 days of expiration, must complete the full certification cycle again.
- Renewal notices sent 60 days prior to expiration.
- CAPCE-accredited courses accepted.
- Must be affiliated with a licensed EMS agency.
- Criminal background check required.
How to Renew
- Maintain current NREMT certification (or complete RI-CCP for pre-2012 EMTs)
- Maintain current CPR/BLS certification
- Submit renewal application through RI Department of Health
- Pay the renewal fee
Contact Information
Rhode Island Division of Emergency Medical Services
- Website: health.ri.gov — EMS
- Phone: (401) 222-2401
- Address: 3 Capitol Hill, Room 105, Providence, RI 02908
This page is for informational purposes only. Requirements may change — always verify current requirements with RI EMS before renewing. Last reviewed March 2026.
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