EMT Salary in Kentucky (2026)

How to Become an EMT in Kentucky

To become a certified EMT in Kentucky, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program and pass the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams. The Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) handles certification, which requires applicants to be at least 18 years old (or 16 for student status with specific academic requirements) and undergo a criminal background check. Kentucky offers reciprocity for EMTs licensed in specific neighboring states, those with NREMT certification, or eligible military personnel.

EMT Requirements in Kentucky

Detail	Kentucky
Licensing Body	Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS)
State License Required	Yes
Education	State-approved EMT training program and High School Diploma/GED.
Exam	NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($70)
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing Education	24.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Must be at least 18 years old, or 16 for student status with a high school diploma/GED or current high school enrollment with a GPA over 2.0. Requires a criminal background check (Viewpoint Screening for initial applicants, AOC for renewals). Also requires completion of KBEMS-approved training in HIV/AIDS, Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma (PAHT), and Awareness of Sexual Violence (ASV). Must hold a driver's license or learner's permit and not have felony convictions. CPR certification is also required.

Source: Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS)

License Tiers

Kentucky offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:

Tier	Hours Required
EMR	N/A
EMT	N/A
AEMT	N/A
Paramedic	N/A

EMT Salary in Kentucky

The median emt salary in Kentucky is $36,050 per year, which is 12.8% below the national median of $41,340.

Percentile	Annual Salary
10th (entry level)	$27,290
25th	$30,560
50th (median)	$36,050
75th	$40,830
90th (experienced)	$52,860

Kentucky employs approximately 3,190 emts.

EMT Job Outlook

10-Year Growth

+5.1%

Faster than average

Annual Openings

14.1

Nationwide per year

Total Employment

181

Nationwide

Is Becoming an EMT in Kentucky Worth It?

Factors to consider: Kentucky's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to becoming an emt in Kentucky?

To become an emt in Kentucky, you need to complete the required education (State-approved EMT training program and High School Diploma/GED.), and pass the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.

Do I need a license to work as an emt in Kentucky?

Kentucky mandates state licensure for emts. Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) oversees the process, which includes passing the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.

What is the average emt salary in Kentucky?

emts in Kentucky earn a median of $36,050 annually. — 13% under the $41,340 national average. Wages range from $27,290 (10th percentile) up to $52,860 (90th percentile).

How expensive is emt licensing in Kentucky?

Between exam fee ($70), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How long does it take to become an emt in Kentucky?

Expect to spend 3-6 months from start to finish in Kentucky — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

How many CE hours do emts need in Kentucky?

Yes — emts in Kentucky must complete 24.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.