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Paramedic in Iowa

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

Median Salary

$39,260

Iowa (2024)

National Median

$41,340

All states

License Fees

$205

Exam + application

Time to Complete

1-2 years

From start to licensed

How to Become a Paramedic in Iowa

To become a Paramedic in Iowa, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic education program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic exam. Licensure is granted by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical and Trauma Services. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma, and pass a state and FBI background check. Reciprocity is available for NREMT-certified individuals from other states.

Paramedic Requirements in Iowa

Detail	Iowa
Licensing Body	Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical and Trauma Services
State License Required	Yes
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175)
Application Fee	$30
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing Education	30.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age of 17 to enroll in an EMS program, 18 to be licensed. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent, English proficiency, and current CPR certification at the healthcare provider level. A state and FBI background check is required prior to certification. EMT or AEMT certification is a prerequisite for paramedic training. The NREMT Paramedic exam no longer includes a psychomotor component as of July 1, 2024.

Source: Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical and Trauma Services

Paramedic Salary in Iowa

The median paramedic salary in Iowa is $39,260 per year, which is 5.0% below the national median of $41,340.

Percentile	Annual Salary
10th (entry level)	$34,620
25th	$37,030
50th (median)	$39,260
75th	$47,760
90th (experienced)	$60,410

Iowa employs approximately 1,210 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 Iowa Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What's required to work as a paramedic in Iowa?

The path to paramedic licensure in Iowa: complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($30 fee).

Do I need a license to work as a paramedic in Iowa?

Yes, Iowa requires a state license to practice as a paramedic. The licensing body is Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical and Trauma Services. You must pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor).

What is the average paramedic salary in Iowa?

The median paramedic salary in Iowa is $39,260 per year. This trails the $41,340 national median by 5%. Wages range from $34,620 (10th percentile) up to $60,410 (90th percentile).

What are the fees to become a paramedic in Iowa?

The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($175) and application fee ($30) and required training.

How quickly can I become a paramedic in Iowa?

Expect to spend 1-2 years from start to finish in Iowa — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

Does Iowa require continuing education for paramedics?

To keep your license active, Iowa mandates 30.0 CE hours every 2.0 years.