Paramedic in Illinois
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for IL
How to Become a Paramedic in Illinois
To become a licensed Paramedic in Illinois, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and pass either the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic exam or the Illinois State Paramedic Exam. The licensing body is the Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of EMS & Highway Safety. A minimum age of 18, a high school diploma or GED, and CPR certification are also required. Illinois offers reciprocity for out-of-state licensees or NREMT-certified individuals.
Paramedic Requirements in Illinois
| Detail | Illinois |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of EMS & Highway Safety |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved Paramedic program |
| Exam | National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic exam or Illinois State Paramedic Exam ($110) |
| Application Fee | $60 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 100.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. Requires a high school diploma or GED. Background check and CPR certification are also required. As of January 1, 2023, EMS personnel must complete at least one one-hour course on Alzheimer's disease or other dementias per renewal period. Illinois uses its own state exam for initial licensure but accepts NREMT for reciprocity. However, students who complete a paramedic program in Illinois and take the NREMT exam do not need to apply for reciprocity; their EMS system coordinator submits the necessary documentation. |
Source: Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of EMS & Highway Safety
Paramedic Salary in Illinois
The median paramedic salary in Illinois is $40,780 per year, which is 1.4% below the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $33,890 |
| 25th | $37,680 |
| 50th (median) | $40,780 |
| 75th | $50,380 |
| 90th (experienced) | $130,860 |
Illinois employs approximately 8,480 paramedics.
Paramedic Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Paramedic in Illinois Worth It?
Factors to consider: Illinois's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.