For individuals already certified as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) by the National Registry, transitioning to practice in Virginia is streamlined through a process known as reciprocity. This guide outlines how nationally certified EMTs can obtain Virginia certification, allowing them to continue their vital work in emergency medical services within the Commonwealth. Virginia’s Office of Emergency Medical Services recognizes current National Registry certifications, facilitating a smooth path for qualified professionals seeking to serve in Virginia.
Understanding Virginia EMT Reciprocity
Reciprocity, in this context, is the acknowledgment of your existing National Registry EMT certification by the state of Virginia. This recognition allows you to become a certified EMT in Virginia without needing to complete an initial Virginia certification course. If you hold a current National Registry certification, Virginia welcomes your expertise and offers a direct route to state certification through their reciprocity process. It’s important to note that this process is specifically for those certified outside of Virginia. If you completed your initial EMT course within Virginia, you do not need to apply for reciprocity; your Virginia certification will be processed automatically upon obtaining your National Registry certification.
Application Requirements and Documentation
To apply for EMT reciprocity in Virginia, you will need to create an account on the Virginia EMS Portal and submit your application electronically. Before starting the online application, ensure you have digital copies of the following essential documents ready for upload:
- National Registry Certification Card: A current and valid National Registry EMT certification card is mandatory.
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Card: You must possess a valid CPR card.
- Driver’s License or U.S. Passport: A copy of your driver’s license or U.S. Passport for identification purposes is required.
Having these documents in a digital format before you begin will ensure a smooth and efficient application process, preventing any timeouts or delays.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The application for reciprocity is conducted entirely online through the Virginia EMS Portal. Follow these steps to apply:
- Create an Account: Visit the Virginia EMS Portal and create a user account. This portal will be your central hub for managing your application and certification.
- Apply for Reciprocity: Once logged in, navigate to the reciprocity application section and complete the online form. You will be prompted to upload the digital documents mentioned earlier. For a detailed walkthrough, you can consult the Quick Guide for How to Apply for Reciprocity.
- Complete Fingerprint Background Check: After submitting your online application, it is crucial to promptly initiate your fingerprint background check. Detailed information and instructions for this process can be found at Fingerprinting for Reciprocity Candidates. This step is a critical component of the reciprocity process and should be addressed as soon as possible.
It is important to remember that if you are already National Registry certified at a specific EMT level, you should not enroll in an initial certification program in Virginia at the same or lower level. Reciprocity is designed for your situation.
Maintaining Your Virginia EMT Certification
Once you have successfully gained your Virginia EMT certification through reciprocity, it is essential to understand how to maintain it. Virginia has a recertification process that you will need to adhere to in order to keep your certification current. Familiarize yourself with these requirements by reviewing the information available on the Virginia Department of Health website: How to Maintain Your Certification.
Need Help?
For any questions or concerns regarding the reciprocity process, you can reach out to Ms. Toni Twyman directly via email at [email protected]. She is the designated contact person for reciprocity inquiries and can provide further assistance.
By following these steps and ensuring you meet all requirements, you can successfully become a certified EMT in Virginia through reciprocity and continue your career in emergency medical services.
