Washington EMS recertification is unusual in one important way: course recommendations and recertification methods are decided by your local EMS agency rather than by the state directly. The Washington Department of Health establishes the framework, but your agency determines which courses are approved and which recertification method you follow. Online CE is generally accepted, but you must confirm with your agency.
Washington EMS Hour Requirements by Certification Level
Two Methods to Recertify in Washington
Washington EMS providers can renew their certification through one of two methods. Your local EMS agency decides which method applies to you.
Your Agency Decides the Method and Course List
Unlike most states where the EMS office sets a universal course list, Washington delegates this decision to your local EMS agency. Your agency determines which method (CME or OTEP) applies to you and which courses are approved for your CE hours.
Before purchasing CE, confirm with your agency that the courses you’re planning to take will be accepted for your recertification.
The Simplest Way to Recertify in Washington
If your agency uses the CME method, CAPCE-accredited online CE from CE Solutions is generally accepted. Online CE is widely recognized for Washington EMS recertification, but you must confirm with your specific agency before purchasing courses.
If your agency uses the OTEP method, your recertification will involve hands-on skill evaluations and ongoing training through your agency directly. CE Solutions courses can supplement this, but the core OTEP program runs through your agency.
Our CAPCE-accredited library covers all major NCCP topic areas and is widely accepted for Washington CME recertification. Confirm with your agency before purchasing, then complete your hours online at your own pace.
NREMT and Washington Recertification
Washington does not require NREMT certification for state license renewal. You can recertify in Washington using your agency’s chosen method (CME or OTEP) without maintaining NREMT.
If you choose to maintain NREMT certification, you will follow the NREMT recertification requirements separately. NREMT operates on its own cycle and uses the National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) structure. For complete details on NREMT recertification by level, visit the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians website.
Maintaining NREMT alongside your Washington certification offers portability if you ever work in another state. Many Washington EMS providers keep NREMT for this reason.
Washington EMS Continuing Education Through CE Solutions
CE Solutions is a CAPCE-accredited EMS continuing education provider serving Washington EMRs, EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics since 1997. Make sure your CE is from a CAPCE-accredited provider. CE Solutions is CAPCE-accredited, and our courses are widely accepted by Washington EMS agencies for the CME recertification method. Always confirm with your specific agency before purchasing.
- CAPCE-accredited courses accepted by most Washington EMS agencies for CME hours
- NREMT recertification packages for providers maintaining National Registry
- Full EMS continuing education library covering all major topic areas
- 100% online delivery, accessible from anywhere
- Direct email support with responses within 24 hours
- Automatic CE certificate generation
Browse our Washington EMS continuing education courses or view NREMT recertification packages to get started.
Washington EMS Recertification FAQs
What EMS continuing education does Washington accept?
Washington EMS agencies generally accept CAPCE-accredited EMS continuing education for the CME method. Make sure your CE is from a CAPCE-accredited provider. CE Solutions is CAPCE-accredited and our courses are widely accepted by Washington EMS agencies. Always confirm with your specific agency that the courses you’re planning to take will be accepted.
Does Washington require NREMT certification?
No. Washington does not require NREMT for state EMS license renewal. Recertification is handled through your agency’s chosen method: CME or OTEP. Many Washington providers maintain NREMT for portability, but it’s not required.
How many CE hours do I need for Washington recertification?
Washington requires 15 hours for EMR, 30 hours for EMT, 60 hours for AEMT, and 150 hours for Paramedic. The Paramedic requirement is among the highest in the country, so plan your CE schedule accordingly.
What is the difference between CME and OTEP?
The CME (Continuing Medical Education) method is an hour-based recertification through approved CME courses. The OTEP (Ongoing Training and Evaluation Program) method is an agency-based program of ongoing skill evaluations and training throughout your certification cycle. Your local EMS agency decides which method applies to you.
Can I complete all my Washington CE hours online?
Online CE is generally accepted for the CME method in Washington, but you must confirm with your specific agency. The OTEP method involves in-person skill evaluations through your agency, so it cannot be completed entirely online.
How do I know which method (CME or OTEP) applies to me?
Your local EMS agency decides which recertification method applies to you. Contact your agency directly to confirm which method you should follow.
Where do I submit my Washington EMS renewal?
Washington EMS renewals are processed through the Washington Department of Health Office of Community Health Systems EMS and Trauma Section, working through your local EMS agency. Contact your agency directly for application instructions, status questions, or licensure inquiries.
