Pennsylvania Department of Health — EMS
Quick Answer
No. Pennsylvania does not require out-of-state EMTs or paramedics to retake a cognitive exam — an active NREMT certification is accepted for reciprocity through Pennsylvania Department of Health — EMS. Processing typically takes 4–8 Weeks, and Pennsylvania does not publish a fixed application fee — confirm the amount with Pennsylvania Department of Health — EMS.
How to transfer in 3 steps:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | Varies |
| Background Check Mandate | Required — Pennsylvania fingerprint background check (per PA DOH) |
| NREMT Status Requirement | Accepted — NREMT satisfies the competency requirement |
| Average Processing Time | 4–8 Weeks |
Classification
Direct ReciprocityApplication Fee
Varies
Background Check
Varies
Est. Total Cost
Varies
Background check vendor: Pennsylvania fingerprint background check (per PA DOH). Protocol exam: None — NREMT accepted.
Pennsylvania does not publish a single endorsement fee — confirm the current amount with the Bureau of EMS.
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 Pennsylvania’s service code.
Your existing CE hours generally transfer, but they must meet Pennsylvania's requirement at your certification level. Confirm any state-specific modules before you submit.
Hold current NREMT certification or an out-of-state license
Pennsylvania offers Certification by Endorsement to providers credentialed elsewhere.
File through the Pennsylvania EMS Registry
Apply using the Pennsylvania EMS Registry's Certification by Endorsement process.
Receive your certification through your Regional EMS Council
Once approved, Pennsylvania emails you and your Regional EMS Council mails your PA EMS certification materials.
Note your EMS Compact eligibility
Pennsylvania is an EMS Compact member state, so providers licensed in other member states may qualify for a privilege to practice.
Await certification issuance
Confirm the current fee and track your application with the Pennsylvania Bureau of EMS.
Active NREMT Certification
Authorize NREMT to release your verification to Pennsylvania Department of 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
Pennsylvania fingerprint background check (per PA DOH) — required for all reciprocity applicants.
Continuing Education Hours
24 CE hours at the EMT-Basic level (more for AEMT/Paramedic). Confirm any Pennsylvania-specific modules such as trauma or pediatric hours.
Completed State Application
Submit the Pennsylvania Department of 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 Pennsylvania Department of 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.