Paramedic in Kentucky
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for KY
How to Become a Paramedic in Kentucky
To become a licensed Paramedic in Kentucky, individuals must successfully complete a Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) approved Paramedic program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive and psychomotor exams. Applicants must also complete state-mandated coursework in HIV/AIDS, Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma, and Awareness of Sexual Violence, and undergo a background check. Reciprocity is available for paramedics licensed in other states or those holding NREMT certification, including eligible military personnel and veterans.
Paramedic Requirements in Kentucky
| Detail | Kentucky |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved Paramedic program |
| Exam | NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($160) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 30.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, hold a high school diploma or GED, and possess current unrestricted EMT certification. A background check is required for initial licensure and reciprocity. Additional state-mandated coursework includes HIV/AIDS, Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma, and Awareness of Sexual Violence training. Renewal requires maintaining NREMT certification, which has its own CE requirements, and completing the Kentucky-mandated CE courses. |
Source: Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services (KBEMS)
Paramedic Salary in Kentucky
The median paramedic salary in Kentucky is $36,050 per year, which is 12.8% below the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $27,290 |
| 25th | $30,560 |
| 50th (median) | $36,050 |
| 75th | $40,830 |
| 90th (experienced) | $52,860 |
Kentucky employs approximately 3,190 paramedics.
Paramedic Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Paramedic in Kentucky Worth It?
Factors to consider: Kentucky's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.