EMT in Missouri

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MO

Median Salary
$38,580
Missouri (2024)
National Median
$41,340
All states
License Fees
$254
Exam + application
Time to Complete
3-5 weeks (application processing)
From start to licensed

How to Become an EMT in Missouri

To become a certified EMT in Missouri, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive and psychomotor exams. The licensing body is the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, Bureau of EMS. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and undergo a criminal background check. Missouri accepts current NREMT certification for initial licensure from out-of-state applicants, but licenses are not directly transferable.

EMT Requirements in Missouri

DetailMissouri
Licensing BodyMissouri Department of Health & Senior Services, Bureau of EMS
State License Required Yes
EducationState-approved EMT-Basic training program and High School Diploma/GED.
Exam NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($104)
Application Fee$150
RenewalEvery 5.0 years
Continuing Education100.0 hours per cycle
NotesMust be at least 18 years old. Requires a criminal background check and current CPR certification (BLS for Healthcare Providers). Some programs may require a drug screening and immunizations. Physical and mental health capable of meeting the demands of the profession, including lifting and carrying patients, is also required.

Source: Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, Bureau of EMS

License Tiers

Missouri offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:

Tier Hours Required
EMT-B N/A
AEMT N/A
Paramedic N/A

EMT Salary in Missouri

The median emt salary in Missouri is $38,580 per year, which is 6.7% below the national median of $41,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$30,370
25th$35,070
50th (median)$38,580
75th$46,150
90th (experienced)$49,970

Missouri employs approximately 3,320 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 Missouri Worth It?

Factors to consider: Missouri'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 Missouri?
To become an emt in Missouri, you need to complete the required education (State-approved EMT-Basic training program and High School Diploma/GED.), pass the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams, and submit your application ($150 fee).
Does Missouri require emt licensure?
You cannot practice as an emt in Missouri without a state license from Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, Bureau of EMS. The required exam is the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.
What do emts earn in Missouri?
Missouri emts bring home a median salary of $38,580. That's 7% below the national median of $41,340. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $30,370, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $49,970.
How expensive is emt licensing in Missouri?
Between exam fee ($104) and application fee ($150), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.
How long does it take to become an emt in Missouri?
The typical timeline in Missouri is 3-5 weeks (application processing). This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.
What's required to renew a emt license in Missouri?
Yes — emts in Missouri must complete 100.0 CE hours every 5.0 years to stay licensed.

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