EMT in Pennsylvania
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for PA
How to Become an EMT in Pennsylvania
To become a certified EMT in Pennsylvania, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program and be at least 16 years old. They must then pass both the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams. A criminal background check, including an FBI fingerprint-based check and a PA Child Abuse History Clearance, is required for certification. Pennsylvania offers reciprocity for EMTs certified in other states or through the NREMT, requiring an application, current CPR, relevant certifications, an EMS affiliation form, and background checks.
EMT Requirements in Pennsylvania
| Detail | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved EMT training program and High School Diploma/GED. |
| Exam | NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($104) |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 24.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Must be at least 16 years old to enroll and certify. Requires a criminal background check, including an FBI fingerprint-based check (effective January 1, 2026), and a PA Child Abuse History Clearance. Must also have current CPR certification. |
Source: Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services
License Tiers
Pennsylvania offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| EMR | N/A |
| EMT | N/A |
| AEMT | N/A |
| Paramedic | N/A |
EMT Salary in Pennsylvania
The median emt salary in Pennsylvania is $38,580 per year, which is 6.7% below the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $31,300 |
| 25th | $35,800 |
| 50th (median) | $38,580 |
| 75th | $45,000 |
| 90th (experienced) | $48,820 |
Pennsylvania employs approximately 9,810 emts.
EMT Job Outlook
Is Becoming an EMT in Pennsylvania Worth It?
Factors to consider: Pennsylvania's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.