Volunteer EMS in Idaho

What does an EMT do?

An EMT or Emergency Medical Technician responds to emergency 9-1-1 calls, performs medical services, and transports patients to medical facilities. Oftentimes, EMTs respond to car crashes, sick patients, natural disasters, and other incidents. They are usually the first to arrive on scene and have the basic skills and equipment needed to care for patients.

Where do EMTs work?

EMTs work in county, local, and private EMS agencies licensed by the State. Quick Response Units, Search & Rescue Units, Fire Departments, County/City Ambulances, Air Medical Services, as well as some hospitals and private businesses are examples of licensed EMS agencies in Idaho. You can use the link to our Agency Lookup and search for EMS agencies by county or use our map link of EMS agencies in Idaho for a visual representation.

Agency Map

Agency Look-up

Can I volunteer as an EMS provider in Idaho?

Yes. In fact, approximately 40% of Idaho's EMS providers are volunteers. Almost 10% of them also work as career EMS providers with another agency.

If you want to volunteer, or pursue a career to practice EMS in Idaho, you must be licensed by the State of Idaho as an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Advanced EMT (AEMT), or Paramedic.

EMS licensing and other rules pertaining to Emergency Medical Services in the State of Idaho fall under the jurisdiction of the Department of Health & Welfare's Division of Public Health, Bureau of EMS and Preparedness. 

Idaho EMS Provider Licensing Requirements (Volunteer and Career)

• Age 16 or older for EMR and EMT
• Age 18 for Advanced EMT and Paramedic
• You must successfully complete the initial course for that level of license with a state approved education program. Course Look-up
  • You do not need to take a course if you can provide proof that you currently hold an EMS license in another state or hold a current certification with the National Registry of EMTs. You may apply for a license of the same level or lower with this proof.
• Successfully complete the state recognized standardized written exam and proficiency of skills exam
• Pass a background check with the IDHW Criminal History Unit
• Apply for a State of Idaho EMS license with the Bureau of EMS and Preparedness. Application Guide
• Affiliated* with an Idaho EMS Agency that is licensed to operate with personnel licensed at your level or a higher level.

*Added to the agencies roster as a volunteer or career (paid employee) first responder.