General Question

Mariah's avatar

Does certification as a first responder expire?

Asked by Mariah (25883points) September 5th, 2012

I’m grappling with whether I should sign up for a course to learn how to be a first responder. I’m not sure I have the time for it, but I’ve always wanted to know how to handle emergencies. If I do take the course, I’ll be a certified first responder by the end. But does that certification expire if I’m not actively working in emergency response? I can’t seem to find this info in my searches. I would still love to have the skills, I know they won’t expire, but the official tag is a nice part of the deal and the answer to this question might help sway my decision.

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5 Answers

creative1's avatar

Yes every 2 years

creative1 (12066points)“Great Answer” (2points) Flag as…
Mariah's avatar

Oh, okay. Thanks. Maybe I should save this for a time in my life when I have more free time, then, so I could actually use my certification a bit before it expires. Maybe do some volunteer work once I’m out of college. Thanks for answering!

Mariah (25883points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
WestRiverrat's avatar

Yes, it varies by state but the national standard is every 2 years. It expires for everyone not just responders not attached to an emergency response unit. When I was on the EMS unit I had to renew every 2 years and take about 40 hours worth of continuing education courses every year to maintain my status.

WestRiverrat (20117points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…
bewailknot's avatar

Evert 2 years in the U.S. according to the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians. Renewal probably requires some continuing education.

bewailknot (2899points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…
LuckyGuy's avatar

Yes, the certification expires in 2 years but the knowledge, information and confidence you pick up last a lifetime.
Also you’ll meet some very nice people.

Do it only if you have the time and can take care of your other obligations (school).

LuckyGuy (43689points)“Great Answer” (1points) Flag as…

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