Washington State Department of Health — EMS
Quick Answer
No. Washington does not require out-of-state EMTs or paramedics to retake a cognitive exam — an active NREMT certification is accepted for reciprocity through Washington State Department of Health — EMS. The state application fee is $0, and processing typically takes 4–8 Weeks.
How to transfer in 3 steps:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $0 |
| Background Check Mandate | Required — Washington state background check (processed for every applicant) |
| NREMT Status Requirement | Accepted — NREMT satisfies the competency requirement |
| Average Processing Time | 4–8 Weeks |
Classification
Direct ReciprocityApplication Fee
$0
Background Check
Varies
Est. Total Cost
Varies
Background check vendor: Washington state background check (processed for every applicant). Protocol exam: None — NREMT accepted.
Washington currently charges no fees for EMS certifications.
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 Washington’s service code.
Your existing CE hours generally transfer, but they must meet Washington's requirement at your certification level. Confirm any state-specific modules before you submit.
Confirm your level and certification basis
Washington State Department of Health certifies EMS providers on the basis of NREMT certification.
Pay nothing for certification
Washington states that there are currently no fees for EMS certifications — a significant cost advantage over most states.
Complete the out-of-state reciprocity application
Washington uses a specific Out-of-State Reciprocity Application. Some counties, including King County, publish their own detailed reciprocity instructions — check whether your destination county has additional requirements.
Submit to a background check
A background check is processed for every applicant. Washington DOH may need to obtain additional information before issuing certification.
Await certification issuance
Processing can vary by county in addition to the state review.
Active NREMT Certification
Authorize NREMT to release your verification to Washington State 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
Washington state background check (processed for every applicant) — required for all reciprocity applicants.
Continuing Education Hours
24 CE hours at the EMT-Basic level (more for AEMT/Paramedic). Confirm any Washington-specific modules such as trauma or pediatric hours.
Completed State Application
Submit the Washington State 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.
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Requirements, fees, and timelines are estimates for planning. Always confirm directly with Washington State Department of Health — EMS before applying.
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