How long should I keep EMS CE certificates?
At least 36 months for the National Registry, which audits recertification applications at random and asks for the documentation then. States set their own retention periods and audit rates; keeping every certificate for the full length of the cycle that used it, plus the next one, covers both.
A retention rule that covers everything
- Keep it through the cycle it renewsThe application that claims it can be audited after approval.
- Then keep it one more cycle36 months for the Registry runs past the two-year cycle. Keeping it through the next cycle covers every state period on the guide as well.
- Keep the old credential tooThe card that expired is the proof you were current when the course was taken.
Sources
- NREMT Paramedic recertification
- NREMT AEMT recertification
- NREMT EMT recertification
- NREMT EMR recertification
- NREMT 2025 NCCP model requirements
- State EMS office pages, listed on each state page
Questions
What does an NREMT audit ask for?
Documentation of the education you claimed on the application. The Registry's rule is to keep CE documentation for 36 months. Audits are random.
Do states audit too?
Some do, and the pages verified so far show how: Wyoming tracks CE in OWLS and audits about 10%; South Dakota has CE uploaded only if audited. Each state page lists what the agency said.
What should the certificate show?
Whatever the issuer printed: your name, the course, the provider, the hours and the date, plus the accreditation number where there is one. If it does not show your name and the hours, ask the provider for one that does.