Paramedic in Colorado
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CO
How to Become a Paramedic in Colorado
To become a certified Paramedic in Colorado, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and obtain National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic certification. This involves passing both the NREMT cognitive exam (costing $175) and, prior to July 1, 2024, a psychomotor exam. Applicants then apply for state certification through the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Health Facilities & EMS Division, which also requires a fingerprint-based background check. Colorado utilizes a three-year renewal cycle, requiring 50 hours of continuing education or maintaining NREMT certification.
Paramedic Requirements in Colorado
| Detail | Colorado |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Health Facilities & EMS Division |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved Paramedic program |
| Exam | NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175) |
| Application Fee | $10 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 50.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age is not explicitly stated for Paramedics by CDPHE, but NREMT certification (a prerequisite) generally requires applicants to be 18 years old. A fingerprint-based criminal history record information search (background check) is required. Renewal requires maintaining NREMT certification or completing 50 hours of continuing education with coverage of mandated topics. CPR/BLS for Healthcare Providers certification is also required. |
Source: Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Health Facilities & EMS Division
Paramedic Salary in Colorado
The median paramedic salary in Colorado is $43,950 per year, which is 6.3% above the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $37,900 |
| 25th | $39,000 |
| 50th (median) | $43,950 |
| 75th | $48,160 |
| 90th (experienced) | $51,950 |
Colorado employs approximately 3,420 paramedics.
Paramedic Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Paramedic in Colorado Worth It?
Factors to consider: Colorado's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.