How do you renew an EMS certification in Washington?
Washington recertifies every three years on an independent state pathway with two methods: hour-based CME with written and practical exams at the end of the cycle, or OTEP, an agency-run ongoing training and evaluation program. Under WAC 246-976-161 the CME hours are EMR 15, EMT 30, AEMT 60 and paramedic 150, one of the highest paramedic requirements in the country. The local EMS agency and medical program director decide the method and approve courses.
Open the official Washington renewal page
What each level needs
| Level | Requirement |
|---|---|
| EMR | 15 hours |
| EMT | 30 hours |
| AEMT | 60 hours |
| Paramedic | 150 hours |
What else Washington requires
- OTEP (ongoing training and evaluation program) is the agency-based alternative to CME hours.
- Governed by WAC 246-976-161, -162, -163 and -171.
How this relates to NREMT
Washington 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. Logging one CE certificate against both is what the CE tracker is for.
Sources
- Washington official renewal page: Education Requirements for Provider Recertification
- WAC 246-976-161
- Washington DOH
Compiled from these sources, retrieved September 2026. Renewal rules change; confirm with the issuing agency before you rely on any figure here.