We are constantly updating our FAQ's based on questions that are asked over and over again in order to place helpful information at your fingertips. Before you e-mail or call, please read through our "FAQ's" to see if your question has already been answered. They are conveniently organized by level so that you can jump directly to the section that may contain the information you are looking for. There are also many direct links to pertinent forms and applications sprinkled throughout the answers.

EMT-1s | EMT-2s | Paramedics | First Responders

First Responder Certification Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do to become a First Responder?

To be eligible for certification as a FIRST RESPONDER, you must first complete a Nor Cal EMS First Responder course. The course is 40 hours and is usually offered through local fire departments and community colleges. Once you have successfully completed your training, you will be required to take the Nor Cal First Responder written and skills certification examination. Upon successful completion of your exams, you may apply to Nor Cal EMS for your First Responder certification. A completed First Responder Initial certification application and copies of driver’s license, CPR and the certification fee are required for certification.

To apply for First Responder certification, complete the following items and submit all materials in one complete packet to NorCal EMS:

Complete the application for First Responder Initial certification. (Incomplete applications will be returned);
Submit a photocopy of your Course Completion Record from an approved NorCal EMS First Responder Training program;
Submit a photocopy of your CPR;
Submit a photocopy of your driver’s license;
Submit the established certification fee as indicated on the application.

What do I need to do to re-certify as a First Responder?

Re-Certification for First Responders is relatively easy as there is no continuing education requirement, however you are required to test both written and skills. This can usually be accomplished by working with your original instructor. Once completed, you may make application to Nor Cal EMS for your re-certification. To apply for Re-certification, you will need to submit a completed First Responder Re-certification application and copies of your driver’s license, CPR and the certification application fee.

To apply for First Responder Re-certification, complete the following items and submit all materials in one complete packet to NorCal EMS:

Complete the application for First Responder Re-certification. (Incomplete applications will be returned);
Submit a photocopy of your Course Completion Record from an approved NorCal EMS First Responder Training program;
Submit a photocopy of your First Responder certification card;
Submit a photocopy of your driver’s license;
Submit a photocopy of your CPR card;
Submit the established certification fee as indicated on the application.

I needed to answer "yes" on my application to one of the questions that had to do with convictions, misdemeanors, or criminal charges. What happens to my application now?"

When you answer "yes" to any of the questions regarding convictions, misdemeanors, or criminal charges, your application is referred to the certification investigation department for processing. You should then hear from them within two weeks regarding the outcome of the investigation.

I have had a misdemeanor and/or a felony conviction, will this preclude me from certification?

Not necessarily. All applications are screened on an individual basis. Depending on the seriousness of the conviction, your application will be reviewed by the certification investigation department and you will be contacted by a staff member.