EMT-Basic Test

EMT-Basic Requirements

Potential EMT candidates applying for an EMT-Basic certification must meet certain requirements.  EMT-Basic candidates must be 18 years or older.  EMT-Basic candidates must also have completed a state-approved EMT-Basic course.  The state EMT-basic course must meet or exceed the US Department of Transportation National Standard Curriculum for EMT-Basic.  This EMT-Basic state course must have been successfully completed within the previous two years.  Additionally, EMT-Basic candidates must hold a current CPR credential and have successfully completed a state-approved EMT-Basic psychomotor exam.

 

NREMT EMT-Basic Exam

Candidates for the EMT-Basic certification must pass the NREMT EMT-Basic cognitive exam. 

The EMT-Basic test is given via a computer and is a Computer Adaptive Test (i.e., the test is adapted based on the student’s aptitude).  The number of questions on the EMT-Basic exam will range from 70 to 120 based on the EMT student’s aptitude.  You will be given a maximum of two hours to complete the EMT-Basic exam.

The EMT-Basic exam will cover all portions of the curriculum, including: EMS Operations, Cardiology, Trauma, Medical, Obstetrics, Pediatrics and Airway and Breathing.  The EMT-Basic test is heavily focused on fundamentals and operations.

EMT-Basic Test Outline

The EMT-Basic test outline is shown below.

 

NREMT Basic Exam Question Topics	Range of Questions on NREMT-Basic Exam
Airway and Breathing	12-21
Cardiology	12-21
Trauma	12-20
Medical	11-18
Obstetrics and Pediatrics	11-19
Operations	12-20
Total	70-120

EMTs have different duties and responsibilities based on their training and certification.  An EMT's salary is often different based on their experience, training, and location. Typically, most EMTs are certified to one of five levels that are administered by NREMT, the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.  The five NREMT certifications are: First Responder, EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate/85, EMT-Intermediate/99 and Paramedic. An effective way to pass your NREMT certification exam is to use free EMT practice tests.