Indiana Department of Homeland Security EMS Certification Changes
Upcoming Changes to Indiana EMS Certification – Effective July 1, 2025
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) is implementing important changes to EMS certification and renewal requirements. While these updates were enacted in late 2024, they will be fully integrated into the EMS certification framework beginning July 1, 2025.
These changes affect all EMS levels—EMR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic—and include two key additions:
National Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Responder Training
Mental Health & Wellbeing Basic Education
Who Is Affected?
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Advanced EMT (AEMT)
Paramedic
Both initial training and continuing education/renewal will now require TIM responder training, along with mental health and wellness education.
Key Impacts of the 2025 Changes
1. Initial Certification Requirements
Beginning in July 1st, 2025, candidates for EMT and Paramedic certification must complete National TIM Responder Training and Mental Health Training requirements as part of their coursework. This ensures all new responders are trained to handle roadway incidents safely and efficiently. For Mental Health, the training will give first responders the training to find knowledge and resources to help them with any mental health challenges they face.
2. Continuing Education & Renewal
For all EMS levels—EMR, EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic—the TIM training will now be mandatory continuing education. If your license renewal date falls after July 1, 2025, you will need to complete this training.
3. Reciprocity Applications
Out-of-state applicants seeking certification in Indiana must also show proof of TIM training and mental health education before their application can be approved.
Mental Health Training Requirements
(Indiana Code § 16-31-3-2)
Starting July 1st, 2025, basic mental health and wellness training is required for all EMS certifications and renewals. This training may be taken online or virtually and must cover:
Healthy coping skills to manage the stress and trauma of emergency response work.
Recognition of PTSD symptoms and warning signs of suicidal behavior.
Available mental health resources, such as:
This places Indiana among the states actively addressing the mental health challenges faced by first responders, promoting resilience and emotional preparedness.
Action Steps for EMS Providers & Candidates
Stay Updated with IDHS
Monitor official communications via in.gov/dhs and email notifications.Complete TIM Training Early
ACADIS Portal: Login here for self-paced or instructor-led courses.
FHWA National Highway Institute: Access online training or schedule in-person sessions.
Start Mental Health Education Now
Enroll in courses covering suicide prevention, crisis intervention, and 988 Lifeline response—available through the ACADIS Portal.
Final Thoughts
The integration of TIM Responder Training and mandatory mental health education is a major advancement for Indiana EMS. By preparing early, EMS professionals can ensure smooth compliance and be better equipped to handle both the physical hazards and emotional demands of emergency response work.
Proactive training now = smoother renewals later.
