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Paramedic in Pennsylvania

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

Median Salary

$38,580

Pennsylvania (2024)

National Median

$41,340

All states

Time to Complete

1-2 years

From start to licensed

How to Become a Paramedic in Pennsylvania

To become a certified Paramedic in Pennsylvania, individuals must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and hold a current Pennsylvania EMT or Advanced EMT certification. The process involves completing a state-approved Paramedic program, passing the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic cognitive exam (the psychomotor exam was discontinued July 1, 2024), and applying for state licensure through the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of EMS. Pennsylvania offers reciprocity for out-of-state or NREMT-certified paramedics, requiring an online application, background checks, and verification of existing certifications.

Paramedic Requirements in Pennsylvania

Detail	Pennsylvania
Licensing Body	Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of EMS
State License Required	Yes
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175)
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing Education	36.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age of 18. Must hold a high school diploma or GED and be a currently certified EMT or Advanced EMT. Requires current CPR certification. A background check is required for reciprocity applicants. The NREMT Paramedic exam no longer includes a psychomotor component as of July 1, 2024.

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of EMS

Paramedic Salary in Pennsylvania

The median paramedic salary in Pennsylvania is $38,580 per year, which is 6.7% below the national median of $41,340.

Percentile	Annual Salary
10th (entry level)	$31,300
25th	$35,800
50th (median)	$38,580
75th	$45,000
90th (experienced)	$48,820

Pennsylvania employs approximately 9,810 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 Pennsylvania Worth It?

Factors to consider: Pennsylvania'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 Pennsylvania?

The path to paramedic licensure in Pennsylvania: complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), and pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor).

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

Pennsylvania mandates state licensure for paramedics. Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of EMS oversees the process, which includes passing the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor).

What is the average paramedic salary in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania paramedics bring home a median salary of $38,580. — 7% under the $41,340 national average. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $31,300, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $48,820.

What are the fees to become a paramedic in Pennsylvania?

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

How many months or years does paramedic certification take in Pennsylvania?

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

Does Pennsylvania require continuing education for paramedics?

Yes — paramedics in Pennsylvania must complete 36.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.