Below you will find a list of basic pre-requisite's to become a CERT Member.
The courses listed below are basic, mandatory online FEMA Independent Study (IS) courses that members are required to complete after joining the team. These self-paced courses provide essential knowledge in emergency management, incident command, and disaster response. Each button above the course description is a direct link to the FEMA course for easy access and enrollment.
Notice: All FEMA Independent Study courses are currently unavailable due to FEMA system downtime. We will update this page and our social media platforms as soon as the FEMA website is back online and courses become accessible.
IS-100.C – Introduction to the Incident Command System
This course introduces the basic structure, principles, and components of ICS. Participants learn about incident organization, roles and responsibilities, and how ICS supports coordinated emergency response at all levels.
IS-200.C – Basic Incident Command System for Initial Response
Building on IS-100, this course expands on ICS principles and focuses on leadership, delegation, and management during small to moderate incidents. It is designed for personnel who may serve in a supervisory role during an emergency.
IS-700.B – An Introduction to the National Incident Management System (NIMS)
This course provides an overview of NIMS, the nationwide framework that enables organizations to work together during incidents. It explains how ICS fits within NIMS and how agencies coordinate across jurisdictions.
IS-800.D – National Response Framework, An Introduction
IS-800 introduces the National Response Framework (NRF), which outlines how the nation responds to all types of disasters and emergencies. Participants learn about roles, responsibilities, and the coordinated effort between local, state, tribal, and federal partners.
IS-5.A – An Introduction to Hazardous Materials
Covers the basics of hazardous materials, including identification, risks, protective actions, and the role of responders in safely managing hazardous incidents.
IS-201 – Forms Used for the Development of the Incident Action Plan
This course introduces the primary ICS forms used to develop an Incident Action Plan (IAP). Participants learn how forms such as the ICS 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, and 206 support incident documentation, operational planning, and resource tracking. IS-201 helps responders and CERT leaders understand how structured planning improves communication, accountability, and operational effectiveness during emergency response operations.
IS-315.A – CERT and the Incident Command System
Designed specifically for CERT members, this course explains how CERT integrates into the ICS structure during incidents and how volunteers support professional responders.
IS-317.A – Introduction to CERT
Provides an overview of the CERT program, its history, organization, and the important role volunteers play in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery within their communities.