Must-Have Skills: EMT Certification Coursework and Exams

An emergency medical technician (EMT) is a first responder that provides medical support during a variety of emergency situations. An EMT works for either a fire district or an ambulance provider and serves as a crucial part of the team.

EMT jobs are not open to all applicants. This role requires specialized training and certifications to ensure that the individual has the proper training and education to provide support to those in medical distress. Many fire districts and ambulance providers require that EMT applicants hold the following certifications, licenses, and coursework:

• EMT Certification Course

• BLS-CPR certification

• EMT Cognitive Exam

• EMT Psychomotor Exam

The Pathway to an EMT Career Requires a License

Individual states–including Missouri–require a professional license for emergency medical technicians. The State of Missouri outlines the requirements for obtaining a license. All applicants must be certified through the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.

Before an individual becomes licensed, they also need to complete an EMT certification course that meets the standards of their state requirements and the National Registry requirements. In Missouri, local community colleges may offer these courses. In addition, the St. Louis County Fire Academy lists all the reputable schools and sites that offer EMT courses for individuals interested in this career. 

BLS-CPR Certification

This certification denotes basic life support and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Courses are offered through local fire or emergency districts. Individuals also can visit the American Red Cross website to search for nearby BLS-CPR certification courses. This skill is a non-negotiable requirement for EMTs. 

EMT Cognitive Exam

The cognitive exam assesses skill knowledge. Individuals are tested on what they learned and how well they retained this knowledge. Passing the cognitive assessment is required for professional licensure.

EMT Psychomotor Exam

While the cognitive test assesses knowledge of the course and skills, the psychomotor exam assesses the physical ability to manage these skills. For an EMT to provide life-saving aid, they must be able to remain calm and collected and understand the correct steps to take in any medical emergency. Passing the psychomotor portion of the exam also is essential for a license.

Beyond the Tests: Other Requirements for EMTs

While passing psychomotor and cognitive tests are a requirement for an EMT license, individuals also must pass other tests before they may be hired as an EMT. Passing a background check and a drug screening can be part of the hiring process. Always assume that drug tests and background checks will be conducted.

Individuals interested in becoming an EMT also need to assess their own emotional intelligence. EMTs must be empathetic, caring, and ethical. They also need to stay calm in any situation; EMTs may respond to a drug overdose, a heart attack, a car accident, or even a woman in labor. Each emergency requires a different response; the best EMTs can handle anything!

Find an EMT Job 

If a career as an EMT is right for you, start your job search with the Missouri Public Safety Jobs website. Search by role, salary, education requirements, and more. Your career in public safety is waiting; find it today!