How to become an EMT?

The first step in becoming an EMT is to have either a high school diploma or a GED. The next
step is to find an upcoming EMT class. Check with either your local ambulance service or
fire department to find out about a class near you. You can also check with local colleges and
universities that may offer EMT classes for college credit or contact the local career center for
information. The cost of the class varies by location. Some services offer tuition assistance to
take classes if you are a member of the service (Columbiana EMS does not offer this assistance).
Once you are enrolled in a class, you are required to keep a passing grade throughout the class.
The class usually has about 120 hours of classroom learning with lectures and practical applications,
10 hours of ambulance ride time, and 10 hours of hospital emergency room observation time.
You will also be required to have a tuberculosis test and be fitted with a HEPA mask. Upon
successful completion of class, you will have to take the National Registry Exam that will be
scheduled through your program. Once you pass the registry exam of both written and skill exams
(you have three attempts) your results will be sent to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, EMS
division. The Ohio Department of Public Safety EMS division will issue your certification that will
last for three years. If you make it through all of the steps, Congratulations!!! You are now a State
of Ohio Emergency Medical Technician. Once you get your certification, you are required to be
affiliated with a service that has medical direction by a Certified Physician. Now that everything is
in order, you are ready to function as an EMT.