LP Research Resources May 17, 2024

EMT and Paramedic Training in Michigan

EMT training and EMT paramedic training, licensing, and certification in the state of Michigan are governed by the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH).

The state of Michigan has four levels of training certification for EMS:

  • EMR- Emergency Medical Responder
  • EMT- Emergency Medical Technician (formerly EMT - Basic)
  • EMT-Specialist/AEMT (Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (as to EMT-Intermediate/85)
  • Paramedic

To become a certified in Michigan for these levels an individual:

  • must be at least 18 years of age
  • must pass a criminal background check
  • must possess current CPR certification
  • must have a high school diploma, GED or equivalent
  • must pass a drug screening
  • possess current immunization records
  • must have a valid MI driver’s license
  • must pass a physical
  • must enroll in EMT-basic training and pass EMT certification (for paramedic licensure)
  • must possess sponsorship and/or letters of support (for paramedic licensure)

Michigan Training, Licensing, and Certification Requirements

Both EMTs and paramedics must complete a Michigan EMT training program that is MI state accredited in order to be certified. The state of Michigan requires the individual who has completed courses to pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam and recognizes the exam certification if taken in other states. However, once certified in Michigan, it is not necessary to retain the National Registry certification for license renewal or re-licensure. Other requirements are in place for those processes.

Credits required for the four levels are:

MFR: 15 total credits
EMT (Basic): 30 total credits
EMT Specialist: 36 total credits
Paramedic: 45 total credit

Those holding the previous EMT-Basic or EMT-I/85 and who wish to gain certification for the new EMT-Specialist level may apply to downgrade a current license to either an MFR/ EMT or upgrade to the new EMT-Specialist (AEMT) by completing the Michigan Bridge Course.

If you have completed a Michigan EMS Course within the past two years, you can obtain a Course Completion Packet online (for all levels) to begin your licensing process. In addition, a Michigan Licensing application packet can be requested for more instructions on how to apply for EMS certification.

Continuing Education/Certification and License Renewal

Michigan EMS licenses are valid for three years and licensing renewal require an individual to accrue continuing education credits (approved by Michigan), or complete and pass a Michigan approved refresher course equivalent to your level of licensure. Part of the renewal process requires holding a current CPR certificate. As of January 1, 2014, the MDCH EMS Section only recognizes the American Heart Association Healthcare Provider or the American Red Cross Professional Rescuer certifications. Proof of either certification is good for one continuing education credit in the Medical Category.

Once your license is coming up for renewal, you will receive a renewal application via post mail approximately 90 days before the expiration date. If you want to extend your license’s active status because it is due to expire, you must do this online. It is recommended that you do this immediately. Once you are within 60 days past the expiration date, you may still renew online, but you will be charged a license renewal fee and a late fee. If your license’s expiration date is more than 60 days ago, you must then apply for re-licensure.

NOTE: As of December 2014, new continuing education will be required in the form of courses additional prep (courses) for Pediatric emergencies and Operations; Emergency Preparations.

Reciprocity and Recognition of Licenses & Certifications from Other States

Michigan does accept EMS reciprocity, not all states do. If you have passed the NREMT exam and/or are certified from another state, then your state education must meet Michigan requirements (see Michigan Verification of Out-of-State Licensure Form (EMS-250) in order to become certified or licensed as an EMT in Michigan. However, if you are not eligible, you can still be deemed eligible once you take and pass a Michigan approved EMS education course.

Individuals licensed in more than one state will need to provide verification for all those states of which you ever held a license. This reciprocity re-licensing process takes 4 to 6 weeks. Reciprocity applications can be obtained online at the Michigan Department of Community Health website.

If you hold a Michigan EMS license and need to verify the license to another state entity, you can do this by requesting a document referred to as a “letter of good standing.” This needs to be done by a written request and the process takes approximately takes 15-20 business days from the time your request is received by the MDCH EMS Section. The Department will verify and mail or fax the information to the state and department whose information you provide.

Additional requirements for pursuing EMT training and EMT paramedic training exist. Read the articles EMT Training and EMT Paramedic Training for additional information, details, and a list of these requirements.

Contact Information

Michigan Department of Community Health
Emergency Medical Services Section
Capitol View Building, 6th Floor
201 Townsend Street
Lansing, Michigan 48913
State EMS Office: (
517) 241-3024

Most Michigan Course training programs are through local community colleges and technical schools. North Central Michigan College and Wayne County Community College District are just two of colleges in Michigan offering EMT and paramedic certification courses.