Paramedic in Louisiana

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

Median Salary
$33,990
Louisiana (2024)
National Median
$41,340
All states
License Fees
$225
Exam + application
Time to Complete
1-2 years
From start to licensed

How to Become a Paramedic in Louisiana

To become a licensed Paramedic in Louisiana, individuals must successfully complete a state-approved Paramedic program and obtain a valid, unrestricted NREMT Paramedic certification. The licensing body is the Louisiana Department of Health, Bureau of EMS. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and undergo a criminal background check. While Louisiana does not have reciprocity agreements with other states, nationally certified paramedics can apply for licensure by reciprocity.

Paramedic Requirements in Louisiana

DetailLouisiana
Licensing BodyLouisiana Department of Health, Bureau of EMS
State License Required Yes
EducationState-approved Paramedic program
Exam NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175)
Application Fee$50
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
NotesApplicants must be at least 18 years of age. A criminal background check is required. Maintaining NREMT certification is mandatory for renewal. A current BLS CPR Provider credential is also required.

Source: Louisiana Department of Health, Bureau of EMS

Paramedic Salary in Louisiana

The median paramedic salary in Louisiana is $33,990 per year, which is 17.8% below the national median of $41,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$24,280
25th$28,690
50th (median)$33,990
75th$36,810
90th (experienced)$46,500

Louisiana employs approximately 2,290 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 Louisiana Worth It?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to becoming a paramedic in Louisiana?
Louisiana requires paramedics to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($50 fee).
Does Louisiana require paramedic licensure?
A state license is required in Louisiana. Louisiana Department of Health, Bureau of EMS handles paramedic licensing — the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) is part of the process.
How much do paramedics make in Louisiana?
The median paramedic salary in Louisiana is $33,990 per year. — 18% under the $41,340 national average. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $24,280, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $46,500.
How much does it cost to become a paramedic in Louisiana?
Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($175) and application fee ($50) plus your education and training.
How many months or years does paramedic certification take in Louisiana?
Expect to spend 1-2 years from start to finish in Louisiana — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.

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