Vermont
Vermont has not yet joined the EMS Compact. Here is what that means, and how it could change.
Vermont has not yet joined the EMS Compact
The EMS Compact is not currently law in Vermont. This page explains what that means for you today, what would change if Vermont joined, and how Vermont can become a participating state.
What This Means for You Right Now
Because the Compact is not in force in Vermont:
- A Vermont EMS license does not provide a Privilege to Practice in the 27 participating states.
- Clinicians licensed in participating states do not have a Privilege to Practice in Vermont under the Compact.
- To practice across state lines, you currently rely on each state's individual licensure or reciprocity process, which is slower and must be repeated for every state.
In short: the Compact's single-license, multi-state mobility does not yet apply to you as a Vermont clinician.
What Would Change If Vermont Joined
If Vermont enacts the EMS Compact, eligible Vermont clinicians would gain a Privilege to Practice across all participating states on the strength of their Home State license, without applying for a separate license in each one. In practical terms, that means:
- The ability to respond across state lines during disasters, mass-casualty incidents, and large events, without waiting for emergency waivers.
- Easier coverage of cross-border regions, mutual aid, and inter-facility transports.
- Recognition of your qualifications in a national framework that already covers more than 450,000 EMS clinicians.
- Stronger public protection, as Vermont would gain secure access to coordinated licensure and disciplinary data through the National EMS Coordinated Database.
The Compact does not replace Vermont's authority over the licenses it issues; Vermont would retain full control of its own licensure while recognizing the Privilege to Practice for cross-border work.
How Vermont Can Join
A state joins the EMS Compact through a straightforward, no-fee process:
- Enact the model legislation. Vermont's legislature passes the EMS Compact model bill (REPLICA) in its uniform form, and it is signed into law.
- Appoint a Commissioner. The Governor or designee appoints Vermont's voting representative to the Commission, typically the State EMS Director.
- Integrate with the database. Vermont's EMS office connects to the National EMS Coordinated Database.
- Go live. Once complete, Vermont clinicians gain the Privilege to Practice in all participating states.
There are no fees to states or to EMS clinicians.