The Virginia Office of EMS will accept and consider application from providers with current EMS certifications from ANY state or U.S. territory for certification in Virginia at the EMT level only through Legal Recognition. Once granted, certification through Legal Recognition will be valid for a maximum of one calendar year OR the time left on the present certification, whichever is shortest.
No initial test is required for Legal Recognition. In order to recertify, providers must complete the required Virginia EMS continuing education criteria prior to their certification expiration date and successfully pass the Virginia practical and National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians cognitive examination.
The Examination Process
Once you have gained eligibility, you will need to complete the following items:
- Register for and complete Virginia's Psychomotor Competency Verification. Click this link for specific instructions regarding the testing requirements.
- Register to take the National Registry EMT’s cognitive examination at a Pearson VUE Testing Center. National Registry will offer you up to six (6) opportunities to pass the cognitive examination however, after three unsuccessful attempts you would be required to do 20 hours of remedial education.
Legal Recognition Application Process
Candidates for Legal Recognition must complete an online application and submit digital copies of EMS credentials to the Division of Accreditation, Certification & Education of the Office of EMS. You will be required to have the following documentation in a digital format in order to make your application for legal recognition. A current:
- State certification card
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) card
- Driver's license or U.S. Passport
Please do not begin the online application process until you have gathered all the necessary documentation in order to prevent your application from timing out. A Quick Guide for How to Apply can be found by clicking here
For questions about reciprocity email Ms. Toni Twyman (toni.twyman@vdh.virginia.gov).
