An Iowa EMT certification runs two years; each renewal is good for two years from the current expiration date.
Your own expiration date is on your certification card and in the state's online license lookup.
| State EMS office | Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of EMS |
|---|---|
| Cycle | every 2 years from your current expiration date |
| Continuing education | 22 core CE hours by topic (4 airway, 5 cardiology, 3 trauma, 6 medical, 2 operations, 2 pediatric), or meet NREMT's requirements |
| National Registry | One way to renew |
| Fee | $0 |
If it lapses: Goes inactive on the expiration date. If CE was done in time, late renewal with a $30 late fee and audit form by the last day of the next month; otherwise reactivate within 24 months.
From 641 IAC 131.5 renewal, fees, CE, checked November 10, 2026. The state: "A renewal certificate is valid for two years from the current expiration date unless sooner surrendered, suspended or revoked."
The NREMT EMT exam, EMR and the other EMS levels, with every answer explained. Made by an RN and former New York State EMT. Free to start, no sign-up.
An Iowa EMT certification runs two years; each renewal is good for two years from the current expiration date.
22 core CE hours by topic (4 airway, 5 cardiology, 3 trauma, 6 medical, 2 operations, 2 pediatric), or meet NREMT's requirements.
No, but a current National Registry certification is one way to meet Iowa's renewal requirement.
$0.
A study aid, not legal advice: your state EMS office has the final word, and its rules and fees change. Headed In LLC is not affiliated with the National Registry of EMTs or any state EMS office.