Illinois Department of Public Health — EMS
Quick Answer
No. Illinois does not require out-of-state EMTs or paramedics to retake a cognitive exam — an active NREMT certification is accepted for reciprocity through Illinois Department of Public Health — EMS. The state application fee is $75, and processing typically takes 4–8 Weeks.
How to transfer in 3 steps:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Background Check Mandate | Required — Illinois fingerprint-based criminal background check |
| NREMT Status Requirement | Accepted — NREMT satisfies the competency requirement |
| Average Processing Time | 4–8 Weeks |
Classification
Direct ReciprocityApplication Fee
$75
Background Check
Varies
Est. Total Cost
Varies
Background check vendor: Illinois fingerprint-based criminal background check. Protocol exam: None — NREMT accepted.
Illinois charges a $75 reciprocity application fee plus a licensure fee of $30–$60 depending on level, for a total of roughly $105–$135.
NREMT does not charge to release your certification to a state EMS board. Where the destination state requires verification of your existing state license, the state that issued that license sets its own verification fee.
This is a fingerprint-based criminal history check. Results are transmitted directly to the state EMS bureau, so you cannot forward them yourself — register with the approved vendor under Illinois’s service code.
Your existing CE hours generally transfer, but they must meet Illinois's requirement at your certification level. Confirm any state-specific modules before you submit.
Hold NREMT certification or a current out-of-state license
Illinois offers reciprocity to EMTs licensed in other states or territories, and to those certified by NREMT.
Gather your education and CPR documentation
You must provide proof of current licensure or certification, proof of completing an approved education program, and current CPR for Healthcare Providers certification.
Obtain a letter of recommendation from your EMS Medical Director
Illinois is one of the few states requiring a letter of recommendation from your EMS Medical Director as part of the reciprocity file.
File the reciprocity application with the $75 fee
Submit to the Illinois Department of Public Health Division of EMS. The licensure fee is $30–$60 on top, depending on your certification level.
Ask about immediate provisional reciprocity
NREMT-certified applicants may be granted immediate reciprocity and allowed to operate under provisional system status while the Illinois license is being issued — ask about this at filing.
Active NREMT Certification
Authorize NREMT to release your verification to Illinois Department of Public Health — EMS. NREMT does not charge for this release.
Current State License Verification
An official verification form from your home state EMS bureau confirming your license is active and in good standing.
Fingerprint Background Check
Illinois fingerprint-based criminal background check — required for all reciprocity applicants.
Continuing Education Hours
24 CE hours at the EMT-Basic level (more for AEMT/Paramedic). Confirm any Illinois-specific modules such as trauma or pediatric hours.
Completed State Application
Submit the Illinois Department of Public Health — EMS reciprocity application and confirm the current fee directly with the office.
Government-Issued ID
A valid driver's license or passport for identity verification.
Comparing Municipal Public Safety & Paramedic Pay Rates?
Calculate firefighter and paramedic base salary, 24/48 shift overtime rates, and municipal pension scales using our Firefighter & Paramedic Pay Calculator.
Requirements, fees, and timelines are estimates for planning. Always confirm directly with Illinois Department of Public Health — EMS before applying.
We use cookies to personalize content, analyze traffic, and serve targeted ads via Google AdSense. By using our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy.