Paramedic in Virginia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for VA
How to Become a Paramedic in Virginia
To become a certified Paramedic in Virginia, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic cognitive exam. The licensing body is the Virginia Department of Health, Office of EMS. A minimum age of 18 and a background check are required, and CPR certification is a prerequisite for program admission. Virginia recognizes current National Registry certifications for reciprocity.
Paramedic Requirements in Virginia
| Detail | Virginia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Virginia Department of Health, Office of EMS |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | State-approved Paramedic program |
| Exam | NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175) |
| Application Fee | $150 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 60.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18. Requires a background check. CPR certification is a prerequisite for program admission. Virginia-trained paramedics who achieve NREMT-Paramedic certification will automatically receive Virginia Paramedic certification. Out-of-state paramedics with current National Registry certification can apply for reciprocity. Those with current EMS certification from another state (but not NREMT) may be eligible for Legal Recognition at the EMT level only. |
Paramedic Salary in Virginia
The median paramedic salary in Virginia is $45,060 per year, which is 9.0% above the national median of $41,340.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $33,890 |
| 25th | $37,900 |
| 50th (median) | $45,060 |
| 75th | $48,630 |
| 90th (experienced) | $57,700 |
Virginia employs approximately 3,780 paramedics.
Paramedic Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Paramedic in Virginia Worth It?
Factors to consider: Virginia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.