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

Paramedic Accreditation Frequently Asked Questions

What is local Paramedic Accreditation?

All Paramedics employed by an approved Nor-Cal EMS ALS Provider are required to obtain and maintain accreditation in the Nor-Cal EMS region. Paramedics must submit their application and fee for accreditation prior to beginning employment as a Paramedic. A currently licensed Paramedic in the State of California may begin employment within the Nor-Cal EMS region while completing the accreditation process. A Paramedic may be allowed to work within the State Basic Scope of Practice, as a second paramedic until s/he is fully accredited. This interim status may be maintained for a maximum of forty-five days (45) while completing the accreditation process. Click HERE for the complete Paramedic Orientation Package.

How to I apply for Local Paramedic Accreditation?

The following criteria shall be met:

Possess a current State of California Paramedic License.
Submit a completed Paramedic Accreditation Application.
Submit fee as set by Nor-Cal EMS. All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Possess a current healthcare provider CPR Certification.
Submit a valid picture ID (driver's license, California ID card, Passport or valid military ID).

Once the Application for Paramedic Accreditation is submitted to Nor-Cal EMS the applicant may then start local orientation and training, see Appendix A, Initial Paramedic Orientation Form.
At the time the completed Initial Paramedic Orientation Form is submitted to Nor-Cal EMS, a testing date will be provided for the applicant to take the Nor-Cal EMS Undefined Scope of Practice written examination. Passing score for the exam is 80%.

How long is my local paramedic accreditation valid?

Once approved, you local paramedic accreditation is concurrent with your state Paramedic license, so when your license expires, your accreditation will also expire.

What do I need to submit in order to maintain Continuous Paramedic accreditation with Nor Cal EMS?

Submit a copy of your renewed California Paramedic License.
Submit a copy of your driver's license
Submit a completed Paramedic Continuous Accreditation form.
Successfully complete the following once per licensure period:

Biennial Skills Competencies training, located in the ALS Protocols Module section of the Nor-Cal EMS Policy manual.
Attendance at or viewing of the current Nor-Cal EMS approved Standard Policy Orientation and Review of Trauma Systems (SPORTS) Session.
Documented attendance of at least six (6) hours of Field Care Audits every licensure period, at least three of these hours shall be obtained in the Nor-Cal EMS region at the assigned base hospital.
Completion of all CQI requirements per Provider Requirements policy.

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.