Paramedic in Texas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TX
How to Become a Paramedic in Texas
To become a licensed Paramedic in Texas, individuals must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and successfully complete a DSHS-approved Paramedic program. Additionally, applicants for licensure must hold an associate degree in emergency medical services or a baccalaureate degree in any field. After completing the educational requirements, candidates must pass the National Registry Paramedic cognitive and psychomotor exams, undergo a Texas/FBI criminal history check, and submit an application with a $120 fee to the Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems. Texas offers reciprocity for out-of-state paramedics who meet specific criteria, including educational and examination requirements, and completion of a Texas jurisprudence exam.
Paramedic Requirements in Texas
| Detail | Texas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved Paramedic program AND an associate degree in EMS or a baccalaureate degree in any field. |
| Exam | NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175) |
| Application Fee | $120 |
| Renewal | Every 4.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 144.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. Requires a high school diploma or GED. Must pass a Texas/FBI criminal history check (fingerprinting required). The NREMT cognitive exam fee is $175.00. Psychomotor exam fees vary by location, with some sites charging around $250-$350. There are two levels for Paramedics in Texas: EMT-Paramedic certification (no degree required) and Paramedic Licensure (requires an associate degree in EMS or a four-year degree in any field). All renewal applicants must complete a Texas EMS jurisprudence examination. |
Source: Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems
Paramedic Salary in Texas
The median paramedic salary in Texas is $37,000 per year, which is 10.5% below the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $29,200 |
| 25th | $33,070 |
| 50th (median) | $37,000 |
| 75th | $44,940 |
| 90th (experienced) | $52,170 |
Texas employs approximately 13,550 paramedics.
Paramedic Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Paramedic in Texas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Texas's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.