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OEMS eLicensing FAQs

OEMS eLicensing Transition Frequently Asked Questions for EMTs

The Department has transitioned to an eLicensing system for EMT Provider certifications, Instructor/Coordinator approval, and ambulance service licensing. 

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Q1: What certification/license types utilize this eLicensing system?

Initial and renewal applications for:

  • EMT Basic
  • Advanced EMT
  • EMT Paramedic
  • Instructor/Coordinator Approval
  • Ambulance Service License
  • Emergency First Response (EFR) (renewal and modification only)

Q2: How do I access the new eLicensing system?

Existing EMTs and applicants for certification can create an account at the Health Professions Licensing Portal. Once created, use your certification number and social security number to link your certification to your account. Once you have registered, log in to your account and select “Manage My Licenses and Applications” and then “Link License/Registration to my Account.”

  • Select your license type from the “License Type” dropdown menu; and
  • Enter your license number in the “License Number” field.
    • Please ensure you enter the correct MA EMS certification number with the prefix letter (E – EMT Basic, A – Advanced EMT, P – EMT Paramedic).You will be asked to provide your SSN and DOB for confirmation

If you do not currently hold a MA EMS certification, you may use this account to apply. 

Q3: How do I, as a current EMT, use this system?

If you do not already have an account, you will need to create one and link your certification. Once you do so, you can access and reprint certifications, submit initial and renewal applications, and update contact information. 

Q4: How do ambulance services use this system?

Existing Ambulance and EFR services will need to create an account on eLicensing. If you already have an account or once the account is created, log in and select “Manage My Licenses and Applications” and then “Link License/Registration to my Account.” Select your license type and license number (including the new prefix “AMB-” or “EFR-”). You will be asked to enter a registration pin sent via email, in order to link your license to your account. If you have difficulty or need your registration pin, please contact oems.ambulance@mass.gov

Once you link the account, you can access and reprint certifications and licenses, submit renewal, new vehicle/place of business applications, and update contact information.

Please visit https://www.mass.gov/massachusetts-ambulance-services for specific instructions regarding application instructions. 

Q5: Does the eLicensing system change the process or requirements for renewal?

The EMT renewal process and requirements have not changed. All education is tracked and approved on NREMT.org. Once that is complete, EMTs submit their state renewal application and fee using the eLicensing system. 

Q6: When I need to renew my EMT certification, what should I do?

You can find renewal instructions, guides, and resources on our renewal webpage at https://www.mass.gov/how-to/renew-your-emt-advanced-emt-or-paramedic-certification

Q7: Do I need to have an email address to complete my application or renew my certification?

Yes, you must have a valid email address in order to apply for certification or renewal. The Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) no longer issues paper certifications or mailed certification renewal reminders.  OEMS uses email to communicate renewal reminders and important changes in statute, regulations and policies. OEMS uses email to communicate renewal reminders and important changes in statute, regulations and policies. Failure to provide and update a working email address will prevent you from receiving these important updates. 

Q8: Will OEMS still mail me a certification card? What can I use when working as an EMT? When will I get my certification card?

OEMS no longer mails EMS certification cards. Once your initial or renewal application has processed, your certification card will be emailed directly to you. You may also retrieve your card from your eLicensing account. Please visit https://www.mass.gov/how-to/change-information-on-your-ems-certification-card-or-request-a-duplicate-card for instructions.

Q9: How can I change the name on my EMT certification?

Name change requests can be submitted using your eLicensing account. Please be prepared to submit/upload official name change documentation, such as a government issued I.D. or legal name change documentation with your new name indicated. Please visit https://www.mass.gov/how-to/change-information-on-your-ems-certification-card-or-request-a-duplicate-card for instructions.

Q10: How can I change the email or mailing address on my EMT certification?

Address changes can be submitted using your eLicensing account. Please visit https://www.mass.gov/how-to/change-information-on-your-ems-certification-card-or-request-a-duplicate-card for instructions.

Q11: Do I still need to have NREMT certification in order to become an EMT?

Yes, all initial certification requirements can be found at https://www.mass.gov/guides/apply-for-an-initial-emt-advanced-emt-or-paramedic-certification

Q12: My EMT certification has expired, how can I renew (or regain) it?

If your certification status, please review the reinstatement page at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reinstate-your-expired-emt-certification to determine how you can regain your EMT certification. The process differs depending on your expiration date and NREMT status, either through renewal or reinstatement.

Q13: My current Massachusetts and NREMT certification expiration dates do not match. How can I align them?

If you hold NREMT certification, you must maintain it, in order to renew your MA certification. If you are due to align these expiration dates, you may submit a renewal application using the eLicensing system. If you have additional questions, please email oems.recert@mass.gov.

Q14: I don’t have a social security number (SSN), can I still apply to become an EMT online?

Yes, you will provide your NREMT assigned pseudo SSN on the initial application. If you are issued an official SSN, you must update both your MA and NREMT accounts. Please follow the application instructions to indicate you are entering an NREMT pseudo SSN. 

Q15: What will I need to submit when I apply to become an EMT?

You can review the full instructions, with a list of requirements and documentation, on the initial certification page at https://www.mass.gov/guides/apply-for-an-initial-emt-advanced-emt-or-paramedic-certification.

Your application will still be on file and proceed within the standard processing time of 10 business days. If your application is still pending after 10 business days, there may be additional application requirements you have not submitted yet. If so, please contact oems.recert@mass.gov for further instructions.

Q16: My CPR certification has expired. Can I still apply to become an EMT?

No, you must submit a valid BLS CPR (and ACLS for Paramedics) certification with your initial application in order to be certified.  The CPR (or ACLS) course must be provided by a nationally recognized organization, and include an in person, hands-on training component and skills evaluation. Online only courses are not acceptable. 

Q17: I need a verification of my MA EMT certification completed. How can I request it?

Verification of your MA EMT certification can be done in a few ways, depending on the need.

  • Many EMTs can print a verification letter using the licensing verification website at https://checkahealthlicense.mass.gov/, by searching for your name or certification number.
  • If you need to have a specific form completed by MA OEMS (for out of state certification, employment, etc.), please submit the form online, by fax, mail, or email (email not recommended if SSN or DOB indicated).

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