EMT in New Jersey

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

Median Salary
$49,500
New Jersey (2024)
National Median
$41,340
All states
Time to Complete
3-6 months
From start to licensed

How to Become an EMT in New Jersey

To become a certified EMT in New Jersey, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program, possess a high school diploma or GED, and hold a current CPR certification at the Healthcare Provider or Professional Rescuer level. Candidates must then pass the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams. The licensing body is the New Jersey Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services. Applicants must be at least 16 years old to begin training, and a criminal background check is required. New Jersey offers reciprocity for EMTs from other states, with specific requirements depending on the applicant's prior certification standards.

EMT Requirements in New Jersey

DetailNew Jersey
Licensing BodyNew Jersey Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services
State License Required Yes
EducationState-approved EMT training program, High School Diploma/GED, and current CPR certification at the Healthcare Provider or Professional Rescuer level.
Exam NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($104)
RenewalEvery 3.0 years
Continuing Education48.0 hours per cycle
NotesMust be at least 16 years old to begin training, but specific regulations apply for minors under 18. Requires a criminal background check. Must be physically capable of performing all required EMT skills and tasks. CPR certification must be maintained throughout the training program and until certified. Online CPR courses are not accepted for initial certification or reciprocity. Some training programs may have additional costs for textbooks, online access, and supplies.

Source: New Jersey Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services

License Tiers

New Jersey offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:

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

EMT Salary in New Jersey

The median emt salary in New Jersey is $49,500 per year, which is 19.7% above the national median of $41,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$40,310
25th$45,900
50th (median)$49,500
75th$56,760
90th (experienced)$61,590

New Jersey employs approximately 5,630 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 New Jersey Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become an emt in New Jersey?
The path to emt licensure in New Jersey: complete the required education (State-approved EMT training program, High School Diploma/GED, and current CPR certification at the Healthcare Provider or Professional Rescuer level.), and pass the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.
Do I need a license to work as an emt in New Jersey?
You cannot practice as an emt in New Jersey without a state license from New Jersey Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services. The required exam is the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.
What do emts earn in New Jersey?
emts in New Jersey earn a median of $49,500 annually. This exceeds the $41,340 national median by 20%. New emts start around $40,310; seasoned professionals can reach $61,590.
What's the total cost to get emt certified in New Jersey?
Costs include exam fee ($104). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
How many months or years does emt certification take in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, becoming an emt generally takes 3-6 months, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.
What's required to renew a emt license in New Jersey?
To keep your license active, New Jersey mandates 48.0 CE hours every 3.0 years.

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