Minnesota EMS Education Programs

Welcome to the Education Programs section of the Minnesota Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS). Our mission is to ensure EMS education programs across Minnesota meet the highest standards, as required by state law. This page provides essential information for education coordinators and institutions seeking approval to operate EMS training programs. The links below will direct you to the appropriate resources.

 Get Started: How to Become an Approved Education Program 

Manage Your Education Program

 Information about Exams 

 Forms & Resources

Key Statutory Requirements for EMS Education Programs

These statutory requirements support consistency, safety, and high-quality instruction across all EMS education programs in Minnesota. OEMS regulates and approves training programs to ensure they align with state standards and prepare students for real-world emergency care. By maintaining compliance, education coordinators help uphold the integrity of the EMS system and support a skilled, competent workforce.

Program Approval (Minnesota Statute 144E.285)

• Application Submission: All EMT, AEMT, and paramedic programs must submit a complete application to OEMS, including course details and qualifications for the medical director, education coordinator, and instructors.
• Curriculum Standards: Programs must follow the U.S. Department of Transportation's national EMS curriculum or another equivalent approved by OEMS.

Instructor Qualifications (Minnesota Statute 144E.283)

• Credentialing: Instructors must be certified or licensed as an EMT, AEMT, paramedic, physician, physician assistant, or registered nurse.
• Experience: A minimum of two years of active emergency medical practice is required.
• Medical Director Recommendation: Instructors must be recommended by a medical director affiliated with a licensed ambulance service, hospital, or approved education program.
• Instructor Education: Completion of an EMS Instructor Education Program approved by OEMS is required.
• Ongoing Training: Instructors must complete at least eight hours of continuing education in teaching methods every two years, with documentation submitted to the education program coordinator.

Practical Skills Examiner Qualifications (Minnesota Statute 144E.286)

• Certification Level: Examiners must be certified at or above the level they are evaluating or be a qualified nurse, physician, or physician assistant with EMS experience.
• Physician Availability: A physician must be available during AEMT and paramedic practical exams to answer questions related to skills assessment.

This guidance helps education coordinators understand and meet statutory requirements when applying for or maintaining program approval. If you have questions or need support, the Minnesota OEMS team is here to help.

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