Paramedic in Arizona

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

Median Salary
$38,110
Arizona (2024)
National Median
$41,340
All states
Time to Complete
1-2 years
From start to licensed

How to Become a Paramedic in Arizona

To become a certified Paramedic in Arizona, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive exam. As of July 1, 2024, the NREMT Paramedic certification exam no longer includes a psychomotor component. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card. Arizona does not offer reciprocity with other states; therefore, applicants must hold a current NREMT certification and have an Arizona address to be eligible for state certification.

Paramedic Requirements in Arizona

DetailArizona
Licensing BodyArizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of EMS & Trauma System
State License Required Yes
EducationState-approved Paramedic program
Exam NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive) ($175)
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing Education48.0 hours per cycle
NotesMinimum age 18. Requires a Fingerprint Clearance Card. As of July 1, 2024, the NREMT Paramedic certification exam no longer includes a psychomotor exam component. Some paramedic programs may require one year of pre-hospital or patient care documented experience for admission.

Source: Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of EMS & Trauma System

Paramedic Salary in Arizona

The median paramedic salary in Arizona is $38,110 per year, which is 7.8% below the national median of $41,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$31,990
25th$33,520
50th (median)$38,110
75th$46,610
90th (experienced)$47,910

Arizona employs approximately 3,660 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 Arizona Worth It?

Factors to consider: Arizona'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 a paramedic in Arizona?
Arizona requires paramedics to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), and pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive).
Do I need a license to work as a paramedic in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona requires a state license to practice as a paramedic. The licensing body is Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of EMS & Trauma System. You must pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive).
What do paramedics earn in Arizona?
The median paramedic salary in Arizona is $38,110 per year. — 8% under the $41,340 national average. Wages range from $31,990 (10th percentile) up to $47,910 (90th percentile).
What are the fees to become a paramedic in Arizona?
Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($175) plus your education and training.
What's the timeline to become a paramedic in Arizona?
Most candidates in Arizona complete the process in 1-2 years, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.
What's required to renew a paramedic license in Arizona?
Arizona requires 48.0 hours of continuing education every 2.0 years to maintain your paramedic license.

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