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Moving to South Carolina? Start Your EMS Certification Here.
SCEMSA is here to help EMS professionals understand the South Carolina certification process and find the official resources needed to apply for certification by reciprocity.
Before You Apply
The South Carolina Department of Public Health is the official certifying agency for EMS professionals in South Carolina. SCEMSA does not issue certifications, but we provide this page as a helpful guide to connect applicants with the correct DPH resources.
Certification by Reciprocity
South Carolina offers a pathway for EMTs, AEMTs, and Paramedics who are currently certified in another state and are seeking South Carolina EMS certification.
EMT
Applicants must meet DPH certification requirements, including required documentation, background check, BLS credential, and National Registry certification.
AEMT
AEMT applicants should follow the current DPH pathway and submit all required certification and background check documentation.
Paramedic
Paramedic applicants must meet DPH requirements, including National Registry certification, background check, and current advanced life support credentials.
What You Will Likely Need
National Registry
DPH lists National Registry as a minimum requirement for initial and reciprocity certification.
Background Check
South Carolina requires federal and state criminal background checks for EMT certification and recertification at all levels.
BLS or ALS Card
DPH requires a BLS card for EMTs and advanced life support credentials for Paramedics.
Out-of-State Verification
Applicants may need to complete or submit out-of-state verification documentation as part of the reciprocity process.
Recommended Steps
1. Review the DPH Pathway to Certification
Start with the official DPH certification links and pathway information to confirm current requirements.
2. Complete the Required Background Check
In-state applicants should use the SC IdentoGO process. Out-of-state applicants should follow DPH’s non-resident background check instructions.
3. Gather Your Certification Documents
Have your National Registry certification, current BLS or ALS credentials, and any state verification documents ready before applying.
4. Submit Through the Official LMS Portal
Certification applications and public certification verification are handled through South Carolina’s official LMS portal.
How Long Does the Process Take?
DPH states the certification process typically takes 7–10 business days once all required documents are received. Processing depends on application volume, completeness of documentation, and the order in which applications are received.
Accepted CPR and Life Support Credentials
DPH does not accept online-only CPR courses or courses without a hands-on skills evaluation. Accepted courses currently listed by DPH include:
- American Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer & Health Care Providers
- Military Training Network BLS for the Healthcare Provider
- American Heart Association Advanced Life Support Provider
- American Safety & Health Institute Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers
Find Your Place in South Carolina EMS
Whether you are relocating, exploring career opportunities, or looking to connect with EMS professionals across the state, SCEMSA is here to help you get connected.
Join SCEMSA Explore EMS in SCThis page is provided for informational purposes only. Certification requirements, forms, processing times, and accepted credentials may change. Applicants should verify all current requirements directly with the South Carolina Department of Public Health before submitting an application.