How to Join the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a community based group of volunteers that have completed a federally recognized, training course taught by local Public Safety Personnel and First Responders. 

CERT training is a comprehensive multi-day training that details ways to assist family, friends, neighbors, and your community in small or large scale disasters. 

The training is free, and open to anyone over the age of 18, that lives or works in Santa Monica. Teenagers 14 to 17 years old may participate with the consent of a parent or guardian who is enrolled in the same course. 

Official CERT certificate of completion is contingent upon completing the full training course and passing a background check. CERT members from other jurisdictions should send their certificate of completion to OEM@santamonica.gov for review.

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Continue the Process:

Below is more information on how to apply online.

  1. Complete the online application and submit

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    To complete the application please fill out the application form linked here. 


  2. Notification of training dates

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    Once all paperwork is received and complete, you will be notified with the next available date for CERT training.

  3. Participate fully in the comprehensive training.

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    Applicant must attend and participate fully in the comprehensive CERT training.

  4. Fingerprinting/Livescan review (Required for full CERT Certification)

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    Once you have completed the full CERT training course, volunteers have the option to join the volunteer cadre upon completion of a fingerprinting/Livescan background check which will be submitted to verify your eligibility. 


Below is more information on how to apply by phone.


  1. Call the Office of Emergency Management

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    Call the Office of Emergency Management at: 310-458-2263

    Staff will fill out the online application with you over the phone. 

  2. Notification of training dates

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    Once the application is signed and completed, you will be notified with the next available date for CERT training.

  3. Participate fully in the comprehensive training.

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    Applicant must attend and participate fully in the comprehensive CERT training.

  4. Fingerprinting/Livescan review (Required for full CERT Certification)

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    Once you have completed the CERT training course, you must complete a fingerprinting/Livescan background check which will be submitted to the Department of Justice to verify your eligibility. Reservations for the Livescan review will be made in advance by emailing: oem@santamonica.gov 


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