The DC Health EMS program has adopted the NREMT certification standard. In November of 2011 the NREMT issued the updated Basic Life Support (BLS) psychomotor examination guidelines for Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). The policy outlines the EMR and EMT examination standards adopted by the District of Columbia, based on the NREMT guidelines. These standards were effective on October 1, 2012.

All EMR and EMT certification courses seeking NREMT certification are required to conduct a practical skill examination in addition to a written examination. These examinations must comply with both District and NREMT standards.