EMT INITIAL TRAINING

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often about NHCPR's EMT initial training program. Have a question that isn't covered? Contact us, or head back to the EMT class page.

About the program

What is the difference between an EMT and a Paramedic?

Both EMTs and paramedics are emergency response professionals. The main difference is the level of education and the types of procedures they are qualified to perform.

EMT students complete training that lasts from 8 weeks to 3 months depending on the course configuration. They learn to assess patients to determine whether they have any life-threatening injuries or illnesses. An EMT training program gives individuals the necessary skills to perform services like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), glucose monitoring, and oxygen administration.

Paramedic courses, on the other hand, provide students with more extensive and intensive training, with programs spanning 16 to 24 months. The program includes a background in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, cardiology, and medical procedures. Notably, paramedic subjects build upon the  EMT training, and they may perform more complex procedures, including IV line insertion, drug administration, airway management, and cardiac treatments.

What are the skills needed to become a successful EMT?

Being an EMT requires these essential skills:

Physical Endurance

EMTs are required to be physically healthy since it is a physically demanding job. There are instances when they are required to lift heavy objects or patients.

Emotional Agility

As first responders, EMTs often see people in tragic and emergency situations, and they must maintain their professional capacity to perform their duties. Working in such tense situations can lead to distress and burnout, so emotional fortitude is critical—as is the ability to recognize when mental support is needed.

Problem Solving Skills

The ability to think clearly and solve problems under pressure are important when emergency responders need to make life-saving decisions given limited information.

Communication Skills

During stressful events where concise information is critical to saving lives, being able to communicate effectively is critical.

Who should take the EMT class?

The EMT class is a valuable opportunity for individuals who have a passion for serving others, whether it be in the realm of public service, healthcare, or any other field that requires the ability to provide medical assistance in emergency situations. This class is perfect for those looking to pursue careers in emergency medical services (EMS), firefighting, rescue, policing, and other related fields, as well as anyone interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare industry. The hands-on training and real-life scenarios faced in the EMT class equip students with the skills to potentially save a loved one's life in the future.

How is the course delivered?

Our education model, the flipped classroom, enables students to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule through asynchronous weekly tasks in our online platform. You choose what time of day you work — there is never a set time you have to be online, and no live session to attend. The weekly due dates are fixed, though: each week's work is due that week, so the class moves through the material together. Inspired by online college courses, students will complete required readings, assignments, discussions, and quizzes. In-classroom lab activities will then solidify the concepts learned online by giving students hands-on experience with real-life scenarios.

Does the EMT class require a lot of work?

This course is designed to prepare you for success on the national exam and in your future career as an EMS provider. With an average of 200 pages of material to be read each week, in addition to class time, it's important to allocate time outside of the designated classroom hours for reading, studying, and completing at-home assignments. By embracing this comprehensive approach to learning, you'll be fully equipped to succeed on

What is the attendance policy?

NHCPR requires 100% attendance at all in-person labs and 100% participation in the online coursework. The program structure depends on every student being present for hands-on skill practice and fully engaged with the didactic content between sessions.

Are clinical rotations required, and where do they take place?

Yes. Clinical rotations are a required component of the program. Students complete their rotations with local EMS services in New Hampshire, gaining real-world patient contact and field experience under the supervision of credentialed providers.

Are there physical requirements for EMT work?

Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, EMTs must have the physical strength to bend, lift, and kneel throughout their shifts, along with the stamina to perform CPR and other strenuous activities for extended periods. Specific medical and physical clearance requirements vary by employer and state.

Students who can comfortably perform basic physical tasks — lifting, kneeling, prolonged standing — are generally well-suited to the program. For full details on the job's physical demands, see the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for EMTs and Paramedics.

Is a background check required, and what might disqualify someone?

Yes. Background checks are a standard part of the certification and employment pathway. Prior felony convictions — particularly those involving violence, sexual misconduct, controlled substances, or fraud — may prevent NREMT certification regardless of class completion.

We strongly recommend that anyone with a criminal history review the NREMT Disciplinary Actions Policy and contact NREMT directly before enrolling to confirm eligibility.

Cost & payment

Do you offer financial aid or grants?

Currently, we do not offer financial aid or grants.

Do you offer payment plans?

NHCPR does not offer a traditional payment plan — payment must be made up front at the time of enrollment. However, PayPal's Buy Now, Pay Later program is available as an option for students who need to spread out their payments.

To use PayPal Pay Later:

  1. During enrollment, choose Full Payment (not Deposit Payment) for the total course amount.
  2. Select PayPal as your payment method.
  3. At the PayPal checkout screen, look for the option to apply for their Buy Now, Pay Later program.
  4. If approved, the payment processes through PayPal and your enrollment is confirmed.

The course must be paid in full before the course start date.

Do you accept VA program funding?

NHCPR is not currently a VA-approved school for direct GI Bill tuition payment. However, eligible veterans have two independent paths to recover costs after enrolling and paying out of pocket:

1. NREMT certification test reimbursement. Under the GI Bill (Chapters 33, 30, 1606, or 35), the VA will reimburse you for the NREMT certification exam — up to $2,000 per test — even if your school is not VA-approved. Submit VA Form 22-0803 with your receipt after testing.

2. Prep course reimbursement. Veterans with Chapter 33 (Post-9/11) or Chapter 35 (DEA) benefits may apply for reimbursement of the EMT course itself as a preparatory course. Submit VA Form 22-10272 with your receipt and proof of enrollment. The VA reviews these case by case.

Additionally, Chapter 31 (Veteran Readiness and Employment / VR&E) beneficiaries should contact their VR&E counselor — VR&E has more flexibility to fund training at non-approved schools when it supports an employment plan.

For full details, visit the VA's licensing and certification test reimbursement page or call the VA Education Hotline at 888-442-4551 before enrolling.

What is your refund and withdrawal policy?

Please see our Refund Policy page for full details on refunds, withdrawals, and cancellations. Note that the $350.00 enrollment deposit is non-refundable and is applied to your course fee at the time of registration.

Do you offer scholarships?

NHCPR does not currently offer scholarships, but a number of national and local organizations do, and availability changes year to year. Students often find funding through:

  • Local fire departments — many sponsor candidates who plan to serve in their community
  • National EMS Memorial Foundation — scholarships for EMS professionals and family members (nemsmf.org)
  • State and federal workforce-development grants — particularly for healthcare-related training
  • GI Bill / VA benefits — for eligible veterans
  • Employer tuition assistance — many hospitals, ambulance services, and municipalities reimburse training

We recommend checking with your local EMS service, town or city government, and state workforce office for current opportunities.

Certification & career

How long is the NREMT certification valid?

NREMT certification is valid for 2 years from the issuance date, with a renewal option at the end of each cycle. For full details on continuing education requirements, recertification fees, and the renewal process, visit the NREMT website.

Do you help with NREMT exam registration?

Yes. We guide students through the entire NREMT application process — including creating your account, applying for the cognitive and psychomotor exams, locating a Pearson VUE testing center, and submitting required documentation. We're here to support you from class completion through certification.

What jobs can I get with an EMT certification?

An EMT certification opens doors across emergency medicine and many adjacent fields. Common roles include:

  • Ambulance EMT with private services or municipal EMS departments
  • Fire department EMT or firefighter-EMT
  • Emergency room technician or patient transport at hospitals
  • Industrial and event medical (factories, sporting events, concerts, large gatherings)
  • Wilderness, ski patrol, or lifeguard roles where medical training is a strong asset

Many EMTs also use the credential as a stepping stone toward becoming a paramedic, RN, PA, or physician. The certification strengthens applications to healthcare and emergency-services schools as well.

Can I work as an EMT before I complete the course and get certified?

No. New Hampshire state law requires NREMT certification and state licensure before anyone can operate as an Emergency Medical Technician. You cannot work in an EMT capacity, even under supervision, until both credentials are in place.

Logistics & support

Do I need a computer for this course?

Yes, a computer is required for this course. All lectures, skills videos, online assignments, quizzes, and tests will be delivered and completed through our online platform. To fully participate in the course, you will need to bring a laptop running either Windows or Mac to every class. Additionally, reliable internet access is also necessary to complete all coursework.

What textbook is required, and where do I get it?

The required textbook is Prehospital Emergency Care. You can purchase it through our shop or any standard medical bookseller. Additional equipment requirements (uniforms, stethoscope, PPE, etc.) are listed in the Course Cost section of the EMT class page. We will provide a full equipment checklist after enrollment.

Why do you require uniforms and how much are they?

Uniforms are an important aspect of the clinical rotation, as they allow you to showcase your professional image and align with the medical team. The NHCPR polo shirt is estimated to cost around $45.00 and the required uniform pants are available for approximately $40.00, depending on your chosen retailer. Investing in these uniforms is a small price to pay for the opportunity to represent yourself as a highly skilled and dedicated healthcare professional.

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