EMT in Texas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TX
How to Become an EMT in Texas
To become a certified EMT in Texas, individuals must complete a state-approved EMT training program, possess a high school diploma or GED, and hold a Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification. Applicants must pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive and psychomotor exams, and then submit an application and fee to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), EMS & Trauma Systems. A fingerprint-based background check is also required, and certification must be renewed every two years.
EMT Requirements in Texas
| Detail | Texas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved EMT training program, High School Diploma/GED, and Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification. |
| Exam | NREMT Cognitive and Psychomotor Exams ($104) |
| Application Fee | $60 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Must be at least 18 years old. Requires a fingerprint-based background check. A Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification from the American Heart Association or Red Cross is also required. |
Source: Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems
License Tiers
Texas offers multiple tiers of emt licensing:
| Tier | Hours Required |
|---|---|
| EMR | N/A |
| EMT-B | N/A |
| AEMT | N/A |
| Paramedic | N/A |
EMT Salary in Texas
The median emt salary in Texas is $37,000 per year, which is 10.5% below the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $29,200 |
| 25th | $33,070 |
| 50th (median) | $37,000 |
| 75th | $44,940 |
| 90th (experienced) | $52,170 |
Texas employs approximately 13,550 emts.
EMT Job Outlook
Is Becoming an EMT in Texas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Texas's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.