Paramedic in New Mexico
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NM
How to Become a Paramedic in New Mexico
To become a licensed Paramedic in New Mexico, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and successfully pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic cognitive exam. The licensing body is the New Mexico Department of Health, EMS Bureau. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, hold current CPR certification, and pass a criminal background check. New Mexico also offers a reciprocity process for paramedics licensed in other states, which includes a background check and a New Mexico-specific reciprocity examination.
Paramedic Requirements in New Mexico
| Detail | New Mexico |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Mexico Department of Health, EMS Bureau |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved Paramedic program |
| Exam | NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175) |
| Application Fee | $85 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 40.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age is 18. Requires a criminal background check (fingerprints required). Must have a high school diploma or GED and current CPR certification. The NREMT Paramedic exam no longer includes a psychomotor portion as of July 1, 2024. Successful completion of the education program and licensing examination process must be within 24 months of course completion. Applicants have 12 months to complete the initial licensing examination attempt and a maximum of six attempts to pass the bureau-approved licensing examination. Failure to meet these deadlines requires completion of a new initial education course. |
Paramedic Salary in New Mexico
The median paramedic salary in New Mexico is $36,850 per year, which is 10.9% below the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $30,870 |
| 25th | $34,610 |
| 50th (median) | $36,850 |
| 75th | $44,710 |
| 90th (experienced) | $50,700 |
New Mexico employs approximately 1,400 paramedics.
Paramedic Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Paramedic in New Mexico Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Mexico's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.