Home/ Paramedic/ Alabama

Paramedic in Alabama

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

Median Salary

$36,260

Alabama (2024)

National Median

$41,340

All states

License Fees

$200

Exam + application

Time to Complete

1-2 years

From start to licensed

How to Become a Paramedic in Alabama

To become a licensed Paramedic in Alabama, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and hold a current National Registry Paramedic (NREMT) certification. The licensing body is the Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS. Applicants must pass the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams, submit a paper application with a $40 fee, and undergo a criminal background check. Reciprocity is available for Nationally Registered Paramedics who complete an Alabama protocols course.

Paramedic Requirements in Alabama

Detail	Alabama
Licensing Body	Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS
State License Required	Yes
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($160)
Application Fee	$40
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing Education	60.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age is 18 years old. A clear criminal history and background check are mandatory. As of August 1, 2025, an Alabama driver's license will not satisfy the requirement of proof of citizenship; initial licenses will need to provide a document from List A included with the application. All EMS personnel must obtain at least one hour of training annually on interacting with individuals with sensory needs and/or invisible disabilities, required for renewals in 2026 and beyond. The NREMT cognitive exam fee is $160, while psychomotor exam fees vary.

Source: Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS

Paramedic Salary in Alabama

The median paramedic salary in Alabama is $36,260 per year, which is 12.3% below the national median of $41,340.

Percentile	Annual Salary
10th (entry level)	$27,420
25th	$29,900
50th (median)	$36,260
75th	$44,990
90th (experienced)	$49,370

Alabama employs approximately 2,420 paramedics.

Paramedic Job Outlook

10-Year Growth

+5.1%

Faster than average

Annual Openings

14.1

Nationwide per year

Total Employment

181

Nationwide

Is Becoming a Paramedic in Alabama Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to becoming a paramedic in Alabama?

To become a paramedic in Alabama, you need to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($40 fee).

Does Alabama require paramedic licensure?

A state license is required in Alabama. Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS handles paramedic licensing — the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) is part of the process.

How much does a paramedic make in Alabama?

paramedics in Alabama earn a median of $36,260 annually. This trails the $41,340 national median by 12%. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $27,420, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $49,370.

How expensive is paramedic licensing in Alabama?

Between exam fee ($160) and application fee ($40), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How quickly can I become a paramedic in Alabama?

Most candidates in Alabama complete the process in 1-2 years, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

How many CE hours do paramedics need in Alabama?

Yes — paramedics in Alabama must complete 60.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.