EMT Refresher Course

24-Hour EMT Refresher Course for Certification Renewal

Project Heartbeat’s EMT Refresher Course is designed for currently or previously certified Emergency Medical Technicians who need to complete a state-approved refresher as part of the California EMT recertification or reinstatement process.

This course provides a comprehensive review of core EMT knowledge and critical skills while meeting applicable California EMSA refresher requirements. It is ideal for EMTs who want a structured review before completing skills verification or submitting renewal documentation.


What the EMT Refresher Course Covers

The EMT Refresher Course consists of 24 hours of continuing education, typically delivered over three days (8 hours per day). The course includes a combination of pre-course learning and in-person review sessions.

Course content includes:

  • Pre-course modules to review foundational EMT concepts
  • EMS systems, roles, and legal considerations
  • Medical and trauma patient assessment review
  • Airway management, oxygen administration, and ventilation
  • Cardiac arrest management and AED review
  • Hemorrhage control and shock management
  • Spinal motion restriction (supine and seated)
  • Penetrating chest injury management
  • Medication administration review, including epinephrine and naloxone
  • Obstetrics, childbirth, and neonatal resuscitation review

Skills are reviewed and reinforced through discussion, demonstration, and scenario-based practice.


Who the EMT Refresher Course Is For?

This course is appropriate for:

  • EMTs completing certification renewal requirements
  • EMTs seeking reinstatement after a lapse in certification
  • EMTs required by their EMS authority to complete a formal refresher

This option is not intended for:

  • First-time EMT students
  • Individuals seeking skills verification only without coursework

Session Length & Attendance

The EMT Refresher Course consists of 24 total instructional hours, typically delivered over three days, depending on the scheduled cohort.

Due to regulatory requirements, full attendance is mandatory. Students must complete all required instructional hours to receive course completion documentation.


Prerequisites & Documentation

Participants must provide required documentation prior to skills verification, which may include:

  • Download and review the Practical Exam Workbook to prepare for your refresher course
  • Valid or previously held EMT certification
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Required authorization or eligibility documentation from the certifying authority

Specific documentation requirements are confirmed during enrollment.


Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. This EMT Refresher Course meets California EMSA refresher requirements when completed as part of the EMT recertification or reinstatement process.
The course includes 24 hours of continuing education, typically delivered over three days (8 hours per day).
Yes. The refresher course includes formal EMT skills testing and completion of the EMSA Skills Competency Verification Form (EMSA-SCV) through an approved EMT training program or approved EMS service provider.

If you need skills testing only and do not require the 24-hour refresher course, the EMT Skills Verification option may be more appropriate. Requirements vary by certification pathway and local EMS authority.

Eligibility depends on the length of certification lapse and local EMS authority requirements. Admissions staff can help determine the appropriate pathway.

Yes. Due to regulatory requirements, full attendance is mandatory. All instructional hours and required skills testing must be completed to receive course documentation.
No. The EMT Refresher Course is intended only for individuals who have previously completed EMT training and hold or previously held EMT certification.

Course Summary

$400

Oakland & Sacramento Campuses

3 Days | 8 Hours/day

Upcoming Classes

Oakland Campus

Sacramento Campus