Getting ready for Texas EMT renewal, AEMT recertification or paramedic license renewal? Before choosing continuing education courses, identify which renewal option you will use. Your certification level matters, but so does whether you renew through the Texas continuing education option or use a current National Registry certification.

This guide explains the CE hours, Texas EMS jurisprudence requirement and renewal steps for EMTs, Advanced EMTs and EMT-Ps. For a quick reference and available course options, visit our Texas EMS recertification requirements page.

How many CE hours do you need for Texas EMS renewal?

Under the Texas state continuing education option, the four-year totals are 72 hours for EMTs, 108 hours for AEMTs and 144 hours for EMT-Ps and Licensed Paramedics. National Registry continuing education requirements follow a separate two-year cycle.

These columns cover different renewal periods. A smaller two-year total does not automatically mean less education over four years. Texas also recognizes renewal options involving examination, a formal recertification course and an approved Comprehensive Clinical Management Program. This article focuses on the CE and National Registry options.

Texas EMT renewal requirements

For Texas EMT recertification through the state CE option, complete the required education across the approved content areas. Tracking only your overall total can leave you short in an individual category.

If you maintain National Registry EMT certification, the EMT NCCP requirements include 20 national, 10 local or state, and 10 individual hours. A package covering only the national component will not provide all 40 hours needed for NREMT recertification through CE.

Texas AEMT renewal requirements

Advanced EMTs using the Texas CE option must meet the AEMT category minimums. When reviewing a course package, choose the appropriate certification level and check how its courses fit your remaining requirements.

For National Registry renewal, the AEMT NCCP requirements total 50 hours: 25 national, 12.5 local or state, and 12.5 individual. Active NREMT status also requires agency affiliation and skills verification by a training officer and medical director.

Texas paramedic renewal requirements: EMT-P and LP

Texas applies the same state CE total to EMT-Paramedic certification and Licensed Paramedic credentials. Match your education to the paramedic content-area requirements below.

For National Registry renewal, the paramedic NCCP requirements include 30 national, 15 local or state, and 15 individual hours. A 30-hour national-component package alone does not cover the complete 60-hour CE requirement. Active NREMT status also requires agency affiliation and skills verification by a training officer and medical director.

Which CE categories does Texas require?

The Texas DSHS CE content-area requirements apply to the state CE renewal option:

Use this table to identify gaps before selecting your next course. For example, additional trauma education does not replace an unmet pediatric minimum.

Can you renew your Texas certification using NREMT?

Yes. DSHS allows eligible providers to select the National Registry renewal option when they hold current NREMT certification. Under this option, you follow the NREMT CE model rather than completing an additional set of Texas state CE-option hours.

NREMT recertification does not automatically renew your Texas credential. You still need to complete the Texas renewal process. Keep both expiration dates on your calendar and check your National Registry status before selecting this option. DSHS explains the distinction in its EMS continuing education guidance.

Texas EMS jurisprudence is required for renewal

EMTs, AEMTs, EMT-Ps and Licensed Paramedics must complete a DSHS-approved EMS jurisprudence examination before submitting a renewal application. This requirement applies even when you renew using current NREMT certification.

The jurisprudence course and exam address Texas EMS laws and rules. Complete this requirement each Texas renewal cycle; do not assume a certificate from an earlier cycle will satisfy your next renewal. CE Solutions offers an online Texas EMS Jurisprudence course through our Texas EMS course options.

Can Texas EMTs, AEMTs and paramedics complete CE online?

Yes. Online EMS continuing education can count when it meets the approval, content and timing requirements for your renewal option. Texas recognizes CE approved by CAPCE and other recognized accrediting agencies.

The National Registry also accepts qualifying online education and does not limit the amount of online CE on a recertification application. However, completing online courses does not replace application requirements or required skills verification.

Before enrolling, check the course approval, awarded hours and content categories. Then compare those details with the education you have already completed.

How to renew your Texas EMS certification

1. Check your expiration date. DSHS recommends starting the renewal process three to four months before expiration.
2. Select your renewal option. Review your current credentials and remaining education before buying a package.
3. Complete the applicable requirements. Finish the education for your chosen option and your Texas EMS jurisprudence examination.
4. Apply through DSHS. Complete the online renewal application, provide the requested information and pay the applicable fee. For the National Registry option, include your NREMT number and expiration date.
5. Confirm your renewal. Check your DSHS record for the updated expiration date.

Keep Texas CE records for five years. For the CE renewal option, you ordinarily attest to completion rather than submit every certificate with the application, but you must produce documentation if audited. Follow the current DSHS renewal instructions.

Frequently asked questions about Texas EMS renewal

Do I have to maintain NREMT certification to renew in Texas?

No. Texas offers renewal options that do not require maintaining National Registry certification. Choose the option that matches your credentials and complete its requirements.

Can the same CE course count toward Texas and NREMT requirements?

A qualifying course may satisfy requirements for both credentials when its approval, subject matter and completion date meet each program's rules. Do not assume every course fits every category or renewal period.

What happens if my Texas EMS certification expires?

An expired credential does not authorize continued EMS practice. Late renewal can involve additional fees and skills verification. Contact DSHS for the process that applies to your expiration date before purchasing a routine renewal package.

Does purchasing a CE package renew my certification?

No. Purchasing a package provides access to education. You must complete the required coursework and separately finish the DSHS renewal process, plus NREMT recertification if you maintain that credential.

Get started with Texas EMS continuing education

CE Solutions helps Texas EMS professionals complete continuing education around demanding work schedules. Our online EMS continuing education programs offer CAPCE-accredited courses, self-paced access and course completion certificates.

Choose a state recertification package or an NREMT program that matches your certification level and remaining requirements. If you already have some hours, compare your completed education with the package coverage before enrolling.

Ready to plan your renewal? Review our Texas EMS recertification requirements and course options, or register with CE Solutions to get started.

Requirements reviewed September 29, 2026. Confirm the instructions for your credential and renewal option with Texas DSHS and, when applicable, the National Registry before applying.