10/20/2022

Ohio EMS/Fire Electronic Certifications Now Available

The Ohio Division of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has implemented a new electronic certification program so that fire and EMS personnel, including instructors, can access their certification cards on their phones. The new electronic certification also includes a QR code specific to an individual’s certification.

Previously, physical cards have been printed and mailed to individuals.  The new process allows the individual to print his/her own certificate that will reflect all “active” certifications.  When the individual files an application, they will receive an email notification advising of how to download the certification once it goes active.

“In addition to saving the cost of mailing the cards and replacing lost cards, the ecard will allow the certificate holder to go online to print their certifications as often as they want,” said EMS Executive Director Robert Wagoner.  “The printed certificate will include a QR code that will allow an employer to scan the certificate and view the current active certifications at the time of scan.  Employers will also be able to generate and print a list of all current certificate holders who are affiliated with that specific agency.”

Certifications are valid for a three-year period and are renewed on the cardholder’s birthday.  While all current certified EMS/fire personnel will have a new electronic certification generated on October 19, those who currently hold a physical card will be unaffected until their next renewal date.  At that point, certificate holders who meet all renewal requirements will receive an electronic certification and their expired physical card will no longer be valid.

The Ohio Division of EMS has released a 23-minute video reviewing the application and renewal process for new and existing certifications.  Included in this video is an introduction and overview of the new electronic certifications.  Please visit the Ohio Division of EMS website at www.ems.ohio.gov to review the informational video.