This summarizes the steps required to become certified as an First Responder (FR) or EMT-Basic (EMT) in the State of Pennsylvania.

To practice as an First Responder or EMT-Basic as part of an EMS service in Pennsylvania, you must be "Certified" by the State of PA. NOTE: Even if you become a certified NREMT EMT-Basic in another state, you cannot actually perform as an EMT with a service in PA unless you receive a PA Provider's Certification. 

If you have a certification from another state contact the Philadelphia Regional EMS Council to apply for Reciprocity at: 215-685-4219

The basic steps are as follows: Please note that you must complete ALL of the steps, and they MUST be completed in the order presented.

1. CPR Certification: Obtain CPR certification that covers one (1) and two (2) person adult, infant, child CPR and obstructed airway for the Professional Rescuer. (Usually a CPR course is offered as a separate module at the beginning of a FR/EMT course.)
   
   
2. FR/EMT-Basic Course: You must complete the 40 hour First Responder or 120 hour EMT-Basic course. You must conform to class attendance requirements and maintain a minimum class average of 70%. For upcoming FR or EMT classes visit: In Case of Emergency EMS Training Programs
   
   
3. State of PA FR/EMT-Basic Practical Examination: If you successfully pass the FR or EMT-Basic course, you may take the State of PA Practical.
   
   
4. PA Provider's Certification: If you passed your Practical and Written tests for the State then you are almost done. You now have to sit back and wait for your certification to come in the mail. Once you receive your certification in the mail you are officially a FR/EMT in PA.