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    OEMS Disclosure Requirements

    When applying for registration or certification with the Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS), Minnesota law requires you to provide specific information. Failing to disclose required information—no matter how long ago it happened—violates state law and may lead to disciplinary action. This guide explains why disclosures are required, what must be reported, and answers common questions about the process.

    Why Disclosures Are Required

    Disclosures about criminal convictions and related actions are critical to ensuring public safety, maintaining trust, and complying with Minnesota law. EMS providers often work with people at their most vulnerable moments. Reviewing disclosures allows OEMS to assess risks and maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism in the EMS community. This process ensures a safe and reliable environment for all Minnesotans.

    What You Need to Disclose

    Applicants must disclose the following criminal convictions and legal actions:

    Complaint Review

    • Convictions or guilty pleas (including nolo contendere) for any felony
    • Convictions or guilty pleas (including nolo contendere) for misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors related to assault, sexual misconduct, theft, and/or illegal drug or alcohol use
    • Violations of federal or state controlled substance laws
    • Substantiated findings of maltreatment of a child or vulnerable adult by any regulatory agency
    • Any other occupational license actions including actions taken against your OEMS or EMSRB credential


    Examples of What to Disclose

    To avoid issues, disclose these types of incidents:

    • Stays of adjudication associated with a plea of guilty
    • Charges dismissed after a guilty plea with probation
    • Careless driving convictions involving drugs or alcohol
    • Violations of Domestic Abuse No-Contact Orders (DANCOs)
    • Underage drinking offenses charged as misdemeanors

    Not sure what to disclose? Check your record using the Minnesota Public Criminal History Search or a similar system in your state.

    What Happens to Your Disclosure?

    Disclosure Review

    OEMS carefully reviews all disclosures. Most disclosures do not result in disciplinary action, but depending on the circumstances, the following actions are possible:

    • Approval of your application
    • Denial of your application
    • Suspension, revocation, or refusal to renew your certification/license
    • Conditions on your certification, such as retraining or supervised practice
    • Requirement to participate in rehabilitation programs
    • Issuance of a formal reprimand

    Our Commitment to Fairness

    OEMS’s compliance process is not punitive. We recognize that people can make mistakes and move forward after addressing them. Our goal is to ensure public safety and fairness, while supporting EMS providers who are ready to serve Minnesotans. The OEMS decisions apply only to your EMS registration or certification in Minnesota. Other organizations (such as licensing boards or states) may have different rules and processes.

    Privacy and Disciplinary Action

    Your self-disclosure and application are protected under Minnesota’s Government Data Practices Act. Disciplinary actions taken by OEMS are public and may be reported to the National Practitioner’s Data Bank.

    Your Rights

    If you disagree with a negative decision on your application, you have the right to:

    • Request a contested case hearing through the Office of Administrative Hearings.
    • Reapply for your credential six months after a denial.

    About OEMS

    The Office of Emergency Medical Services is committed to public safety and upholding professional standards for emergency service providers. Our core values include:

    Relevant Resources

    For additional questions or assistance, contact OEMS at:

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