California Ambulance Driver's License

The following are essential for safe ambulance operation: - ANSWER - Compliance with applicable requirements - Exercise of sound judgment - Defensive driving techniques Emergency ambulance service regulations are adopted by California Highway Patrol (CHP) apply to: - ANSWER All publicly and privately owned ambulances used for emergency service. CHP regulations do not apply to: - ANSWER - Ambulances not used to respond to emergency calls (IFT) - Ambulances that are federally owned and operated (federal directives) In order for privately/publicly owned emergency ambulances to be equipped and operated as emergency vehicles: - ANSWER They must be licensed to do so by the CHP. "Code 3" is justified only when: - ANSWER - When initially responding to an emergency call - When speed in obtaining emergency medical care appears essential to save a life, prevent undue suffering, or to reduce or prevent disability Ambulances are inspected: - ANSWER - By CHP annually & randomly Decisive factors permitting alternate destinations include: - ANSWER - Consideration of the needs/desires of the patient - Professional medical direction - Protocols established by the local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agency