EMT in Florida
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for FL
How to Become an EMT in Florida
To become a certified EMT in Florida, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program and hold a high school diploma or GED. They must also pass the NREMT cognitive exam and a Florida-approved psychomotor examination. The licensing body is the Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight. Florida does not offer reciprocity with other states; however, out-of-state applicants with current NREMT certification may be eligible for licensure. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and undergo a background check.
EMT Requirements in Florida
| Detail | Florida |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Successful completion of an EMT course from a Florida Department of Health approved program within two years of passing the examination, and a High School Diploma/GED. Must also hold a current American Red Cross CPR for Professional Rescuer card, an American Heart Association BLS for the Healthcare Provider, or an equivalent CPR certification approved by the Florida Department of Health. |
| Exam | NREMT Cognitive Exam and a Florida-approved psychomotor examination. ($104) |
| Application Fee | $35 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Must be at least 18 years old. Requires a Level 2 background screening (FDLE + FBI fingerprint). For the first renewal, only a valid CPR or ACLS certification is needed. Subsequent renewals require continuing education. Two hours of the continuing education must be in pediatric emergencies. |
Source: Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight
License Tiers
Florida offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| EMT | N/A |
| Paramedic | N/A |
EMT Salary in Florida
The median emt salary in Florida is $40,420 per year, which is 2.2% below the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $33,180 |
| 25th | $36,850 |
| 50th (median) | $40,420 |
| 75th | $46,350 |
| 90th (experienced) | $60,230 |
Florida employs approximately 6,770 emts.
EMT Job Outlook
Is Becoming an EMT in Florida Worth It?
Factors to consider: Florida's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.