EMT Salary in Ohio (2026)

How to Become an EMT in Ohio

To become a certified EMT in Ohio, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program, hold a high school diploma or GED, and successfully complete specific FEMA training courses (IS-100 and IS-700). They must pass the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams. Certification is issued by the State Board of Emergency Medical, Fire, and Transportation Services through the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Medical Services, and is valid for three years, requiring 40 hours of continuing education for renewal. Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of state certification and pass a background check.

EMT Requirements in Ohio

Detail	Ohio
Licensing Body	State Board of Emergency Medical, Fire, and Transportation Services through the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Medical Services
State License Required	Yes
Education	State-approved EMT training program, High School Diploma/GED, and successful completion of FEMA training courses (National Incident Management System course IS-700 and Incident Command System course IS-100 or online equivalent).
Exam	NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($104)
Renewal	Every 3.0 years
Continuing Education	40.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Must be at least 18 years old at the time of state certification. A background check is required. Must not have been convicted of, pled guilty to, or had a judicial finding of guilt for certain felonies or misdemeanors. Must also complete Rescue Task Force Awareness Training if not included in initial training.

Source: State Board of Emergency Medical, Fire, and Transportation Services through the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Medical Services

License Tiers

Ohio offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:

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

EMT Salary in Ohio

The median emt salary in Ohio is $38,140 per year, which is 7.7% below the national median of $41,340.

Percentile	Annual Salary
10th (entry level)	$31,230
25th	$35,220
50th (median)	$38,140
75th	$44,990
90th (experienced)	$48,650

Ohio employs approximately 5,190 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 Ohio Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified as an emt in Ohio?

Ohio requires emts to complete the required education (State-approved EMT training program, High School Diploma/GED, and successful completion of FEMA training courses (National Incident Management System course IS-700 and Incident Command System course IS-100 or online equivalent).), and pass the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.

Does Ohio require emt licensure?

Yes, Ohio requires a state license to practice as an emt. The licensing body is State Board of Emergency Medical, Fire, and Transportation Services through the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Medical Services. You must pass the NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams.

How much do emts make in Ohio?

In Ohio, the median pay for emts comes to $38,140/year. That's 8% below the national median of $41,340. New emts start around $31,230; seasoned professionals can reach $48,650.

How much does it cost to become an emt in Ohio?

Between exam fee ($104), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

What's the timeline to become an emt in Ohio?

Expect to spend 4-6 months from start to finish in Ohio — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

What's required to renew a emt license in Ohio?

Yes — emts in Ohio must complete 40.0 CE hours every 3.0 years to stay licensed.