EMT in New York

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

Median Salary
$46,000
New York (2024)
National Median
$41,340
All states
Time to Complete
4-6 months
From start to licensed

How to Become an EMT in New York

To become a certified EMT in New York, individuals must successfully complete a New York State approved EMS training course and possess a high school diploma or GED. They must also pass the New York State practical skills and written certification examinations. The New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Systems is the licensing body, and reciprocity is available for those certified in other states, the District of Columbia, the military, or through the NREMT, provided they meet specific criteria and demonstrate a need for certification in New York.

EMT Requirements in New York

DetailNew York
Licensing BodyNew York State Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services
State License Required Yes
EducationSuccessfully complete a New York State approved EMS training course and have a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Exam New York State Written and Practical Certification Examinations
RenewalEvery 3.0 years
NotesMust be at least 17 years old to take the exam. Reciprocity is available for individuals holding current certification from other states, the District of Columbia, the military, and/or the National Registry of EMTs (NREMT). Applicants for reciprocity must demonstrate a need for certification (e.g., proof of education, employment, or other acceptable need) and have completed a course meeting or exceeding current National EMS Educational standards. Reciprocity is not granted for certifications obtained by reciprocity in another state. A government-issued photo ID is required for reciprocity applications. All applicants must affirm regarding criminal convictions.

Source: New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services

License Tiers

New York offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:

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

EMT Salary in New York

The median emt salary in New York is $46,000 per year, which is 11.3% above the national median of $41,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$37,790
25th$40,180
50th (median)$46,000
75th$56,510
90th (experienced)$62,600

New York employs approximately 14,350 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 York Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What's required to work as an emt in New York?
In New York, becoming an emt requires you to complete the required education (Successfully complete a New York State approved EMS training course and have a high school diploma or GED certificate.), and pass the New York State Written and Practical Certification Examinations.
Do I need a license to work as an emt in New York?
You cannot practice as an emt in New York without a state license from New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services. The required exam is the New York State Written and Practical Certification Examinations.
How much does an emt make in New York?
The median emt salary in New York is $46,000 per year. That's 11% above the national median of $41,340. The range spans from $37,790 at the entry level to $62,600 for top earners.
How many months or years does emt certification take in New York?
Expect to spend 4-6 months from start to finish in New York — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

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