Virginia EMT training helps create professional employees with a strong knowledge base. Emergency medical technicians (EMT) in Virginia will go through training which is similar to many other states. However, a Virginia EMT can begin schooling at age 16 with parental consent. A candidate begins by going through an EMT training program in Virginia and then they must pass the National Registry of EMT (NREMT) exams. Once both NREMT exams are passed, the candidate is awarded both the National and Virginia EMT certification.
This page will guide you through how to become an EMT in Virginia. It will explain each step in the process and offer guidance when possible. There is also a section at the bottom for Virginia EMT candidates who will be taking the NREMT cognitive exam before they turn 18 years of age.
Virginia EMS Certification Levels
- Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Advanced EMT (AEMT)
- Paramedic
Virginia previously certified Enhanced EMTs. However, since April of 2016 a Virginia EMT can no longer become certified as an Enhanced level EMT. The Virginia Office of EMS also began transitioning already certified Enhanced EMT’s toward the AEMT (Level C) certification, with the ultimate goal of complete transition to AEMT through continuing education.
Virginia EMS Scholarship
Virginia has an EMS scholarship program which is undergoing major changes right now (As of 07/2018). The new application process for the EMS scholarship is scheduled to open late summer of 2018, which is very soon. To check for the latest on this scholarship, go to the Virginia Office of EMS Scholarship page.
According to the Virginia Office of EMS there are changes being made to the scholarship program, so past requirements may no longer apply. However, here is some previous information on the scholarship to give you an idea what it’s about.
Previously, eligibility was for residents of Virginia who enrolled in an initial or advanced Virginia Office of EMS approved EMS certification program. The purpose of the Virginia EMS scholarship program is to provide support for qualified applicants within Virginia. If chosen, the scholarship recipient must complete their training program, pass the NREMT exams and affiliate with a Virginia EMS agency within a year of completing their training program.
The previous application deadline was set at August 31, 2018. However, this may not be accurate with the new program changes coming this summer. Past awards were around $495 for Virginia EMT training programs, $620 for Virginia AEMT programs and $2,165 awarded for paramedic programs in Virginia. If you are interested in becoming an EMT in Virginia, but have financial struggles, I highly recommend checking out this scholarship opportunity. Keep in mind you will be required to work as a Virginia EMT or paramedic after you become certified.
EMT Classes in Virginia
Virginia EMT students are taught important skills like patient assessment, airway management, spinal immobilization and wound care. After completing EMT training in Virginia, candidates will be competent at taking vital signs, the primary assessment, getting a SAMPLE history, handling traumas, medical emergencies and scene management.
Virginia EMT programs are offered through colleges, universities, technical schools and other EMT training programs located throughout the commonwealth.
A good Virginia EMT program will prepare candidates to respond to emergency situations and provide life-saving care and transportation to the sick and injured.
Prerequisites: Virginia EMT & EMR School
- EMT classes in Virginia require students to proficiently speak, read and write English.
- Students can begin Virginia EMT training at 16 years old. Students under 18 years old will need a parents signature for EMT class enrollment.
- Virginia EMT students must be CPR certified before the first day of class. Here is a list of 8 Virginia Office of EMS approved CPR courses. Two accepted courses are the AHA Healthcare Provider and ARC BLS for Healthcare Providers.
- A Virginia EMT will need to be mentally and physically capable of performing the required cognitive and psychomotor skills.
- A clean and professional appearance will be required from Virginia EMT students.
- EMT classes in Virginia require that students in class, at clinicals, on duty or caring for patients are not intoxicated. This includes any drugs or substances that can impair the ability to operate a motor vehicle or provide patient care.
- Applicant has not been found guilty or convicted of any crime that violates state EMS regulations. (These crimes are similar to most other states.)