National Registry Discontinues ALS Psychomotor Examinations

The National Registry announced Oct. 6, 2023, that the last day that the psychomotor examination will be administered for AEMTs and paramedics will be June 30, 2024. From July 1, 2024 forward, every paramedic and AEMT examination conducted will be the AEMT and Paramedic Certification Examinations.

“This change is in direct response to the feedback we have received from the EMS community,” according to a National Registry statement. “We have heard that you wanted an easier process for the Advanced Life Support (ALS) examination, and this change does just that by moving to one exam on one date. It also brings our Paramedic and AEMT examinations in line with most other health-based professions, which have made similar updates in recent years, and matches the best research and science that’s currently available.”

According to the National Registry, the change comes in part “because there have been advancements in testing practices and testing science, and there has been a consistent, resonant call for modernization and efficiency of our examinations by stakeholders across the industry.”

BLS (EMR and EMT) examinations will remain the same at this time. The existing psychomotor examination remains available and accessible for any candidate throughout the transition period, according to the National Registry. Candidates are encouraged to check with their state EMS office to determine state requirements.

An infographic outlining the changes and FAQs can be found here and an article with further information is here.