Can You Become a Paramedic After a DUI?

So, you got a DUI and now you’re wondering if it’s the end of your paramedic dreams.

Let’s clear the air: it’s not.

But it won’t be a smooth code 3 transport on fresh asphalt. It’s a bumpy, pothole filled alley road. And there’s a dude passed out at the bus stop on the side.

You’re not the first person to get a DUI as a first responder.

You also unfortunately won’t be the last. It’s a stressful job.

If you don’t already know me, I’m Shay. I’ve been working in EMS for over a decade now. Today I’m gonna cover 3 different ways DUIs can affect you.

1. Before Medic Class
2. During Medic Class
3. While Employed

Obviously there’s a lot of nuance here as well. I’ll try and cover that all too.

Your DUI Backstory

Think of a DUI on your record like a red flag on a patient’s chart.

Everyone notices, and you’ll have to explain it.

The further in your past the DUI is, the better it is for you. I mean as long as you haven’t gotten any more since then.

It means you’ve had time to deal with the fallout and learn from your mistakes.

The National and State committees will want to make sure you aren’t at risk for getting into more trouble.

Also the circumstances around the DUI matter.

If you blacked out and fought four cops after you got pulled over, well, that doesn’t bode well for you.

DUI During Medic Class

But what if the DUI was the week before your test?

Also not great. Your state licensing committee might look down on that. It might not be an automatic no, but you will have to argue your case.

Some states may treat it as a serious enough charge that they deny your application.

Or they may place a mandatory hold on your account for a certain amount of time. It’s really going to be up to them. Each state has different laws.

If you’re really concerned about losing your state license, find a good lawyer.

They are expensive for sure, but they just might save your job. They will know all the ins and outs of your state. You’re going to want an expert on your side so don’t cheap out here.

No Driver’s License? Big Problem

If you lost your drivers license I’ve got bad news.

Paramedics are often required to do at least SOME driving at work. Or at least be legally allowed to drive if need be.

If you lose your license you’ll probably lose your license.

If you don’t lose it the state will likely give you a temporary suspension. At a minimum you’ll be grounded until you can drive again.

Best bet? Don’t drink and drive during medic class. Tall order I know.

Already working? Here’s what can happen if you get a DUI

First of all, you’re obligated to tell your employer.

You don’t want them finding out down the road you tried to hide a DUI from them. That’ll probably get you fired on the spot.

If they don’t fire you, you’ll get removed from the truck.

Hopefully you have a forgiving department and they help you through the process. Maybe they give you a second chance. Be willing to get some help if that’s what they require.

And your Medical Director has the right to stop you from giving care under their license.

That’s more bad news for you.

That means you basically got fired without really getting fired. At least not yet.

Rehab: Owning Your Mistakes

I could tell you drinking and driving is bad but you probably already know that.

And it’s too late. You’ve already got it on record.

So what can you do?

Well, you have to show that you’ve learned from your mistakes. This isn’t about nice sayings or promising you’ll never do it again.

This is about showing what you’ve done since getting the DUI

Complete any court mandated programs.

Often you’ll have mandatory treatment or community service requirements.

Annoying? Maybe.

But they look great to employers and show you’re working on yourself.

You may have to take a driving course again or enroll in AA. Complete the programs and work with the powers that be. The more you cooperate the more likely they are to be lenient.

Get some help.

Sure, maybe you think you’re not an alcoholic.

And maybe you’re not. Or was just a fluke day where you had too much and made a bad decision.

Either way participating in AA programs can look really good when trying to get (or keep) your paramedic certification.

You can also look at counseling.

Personally, I think everyone can benefit from a little bit of therapy. But in this situation, it’s another thing you can show off to review committees.

You want as many of those as you can get.

How to Build a Comeback Application

You need to prove that you’re bigger than your mistakes.

Here’s how:

• Own it.

Be upfront about the DUI. Acknowledge it, but focus on what you’ve done to turn things around.

• Show growth.

Talk about what you’ve learned since the DUI. If you can, relate that to how it makes you a better, more compassionate paramedic.

• Documentation.

Provide proof of completed programs, counseling, or any professional development.

And bring any references you can. Get letters from coworkers or employers who can vouch for your character.

Your DUI Doesn’t Have To Be The End

Getting a DUI is serious, but it’s not a career-ending event unless you let it be.

Think of this as your wake-up call to be better, smarter, and more disciplined.

Learn from it like you would any mistake.

With the right mindset and whole lot of perseverance you can still work as a paramedic.

Otherwise I don’t think any department could staff their medic trucks.

Like I said at the beginning. Your aren’t the first and you won’t be the last.

And for those of you just about to start medic class, check out all these other class resources HERE.