How do you renew an EMS certification in Illinois?
Illinois EMS licenses renew every four years through IDPH on an independent state pathway. Under 77 Ill. Adm. Code 515, amended November 1, 2024, the hours are 24 for EMR, 60 for EMT, 80 for EMT-I and AEMT, and 100 for paramedic; the older 120-hour paramedic figure no longer appears in the rule. Current CPR is required at every level and, since January 1, 2023, a one-hour Alzheimer's course each renewal.
Open the official Illinois renewal page
What each level needs
| Level | Requirement |
|---|---|
| EMR | 24 hours |
| EMT | 60 hours |
| EMT-I | 80 hours |
| AEMT | 80 hours |
| Paramedic | 100 hours |
What else Illinois requires
- Advanced levels typically need ACLS, PALS and PHTLS or ITLS as set by the EMS system.
- Up to 25% of hours may be system-mandated; online, instruction and clinical hours are capped.
- Renewal through IDPH with medical-director sign-off and a child-support and felony declaration; one 3-month extension per career.
- One-hour Alzheimer's and dementia course required each renewal, effective January 1, 2023.
How this relates to NREMT
Illinois runs its own pathway. National Registry certification is not required to renew, though many providers keep it for portability. See the NREMT requirements by level.
Sources
- Illinois official renewal page: EMS Licensing
- 77 Ill. Adm. Code 515.590
- 77 Ill. Adm. Code 515.725 (EMR)
- IDPH EMS licensing
Compiled from these sources, retrieved September 2026. Renewal rules change; confirm with the issuing agency before you rely on any figure here.