EMT in Massachusetts
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MA
How to Become an EMT in Massachusetts
To become a certified EMT in Massachusetts, individuals must first complete a Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH)-approved EMT training program and obtain National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification. After successfully passing the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams, applicants can then apply for Massachusetts EMT certification through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services. The application process typically takes 3-4 weeks, and a background check is required. Massachusetts offers reciprocity for out-of-state EMTs who are NREMT certified.
EMT Requirements in Massachusetts
| Detail | Massachusetts |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Successful completion of a Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH)-approved EMT training program, High School Diploma/GED, and current BLS CPR certification. |
| Exam | NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($104) |
| Application Fee | $150 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 40.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Must be at least 18 years old. Requires a background check (CORI). Must hold current National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification at the level for which you are applying before applying for Massachusetts certification. CPR course must include an in-person, hands-on training component and skills evaluation. Online-only CPR courses are not acceptable. |
Source: Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services
License Tiers
Massachusetts offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| EMT-Basic | N/A |
| Advanced EMT | N/A |
| Paramedic | N/A |
EMT Salary in Massachusetts
The median emt salary in Massachusetts is $45,970 per year, which is 11.2% above the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,620 |
| 25th | $39,520 |
| 50th (median) | $45,970 |
| 75th | $51,810 |
| 90th (experienced) | $67,180 |
Massachusetts employs approximately 4,270 emts.
EMT Job Outlook
Is Becoming an EMT in Massachusetts Worth It?
Factors to consider: Massachusetts's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.