Paramedic in District of Columbia

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

Median Salary
$45,920
District of Columbia (2024)
National Median
$41,340
All states
License Fees
$365
Exam + application
Time to Complete
1-2 years
From start to licensed

How to Become a Paramedic in District of Columbia

To become a certified Paramedic in the District of Columbia, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic training program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive exam. Applicants must also be at least 18 years old, undergo a criminal background check, and secure sponsorship from a DC-approved EMS agency. The District of Columbia offers reciprocity for paramedics certified in other states, provided they hold current NREMT, CPR, and ACLS certifications.

Paramedic Requirements in District of Columbia

DetailDistrict of Columbia
Licensing BodyDistrict of Columbia Department of Health, Health Regulation and Licensing Administration
State License Required Yes
EducationState-approved Paramedic program
Exam NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive) ($175)
Application Fee$190
RenewalEvery 2.0 years
Continuing Education60.0 hours per cycle
NotesApplicants must be at least 18 years old, complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check, and be sponsored by a DC-approved EMS agency. Renewal requires maintaining NREMT, ACLS, and CPR certifications.

Source: District of Columbia Department of Health, Health Regulation and Licensing Administration

Paramedic Salary in District of Columbia

The median paramedic salary in District of Columbia is $45,920 per year, which is 11.1% above the national median of $41,340.

PercentileAnnual Salary
10th (entry level)$37,900
25th$38,740
50th (median)$45,920
75th$58,250
90th (experienced)$71,520

District of Columbia employs approximately 410 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 District of Columbia Worth It?

Factors to consider: District of Columbia'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 District of Columbia?
District of Columbia requires paramedics to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive), and submit your application ($190 fee).
Is a paramedic license required in District of Columbia?
Yes, District of Columbia requires a state license to practice as a paramedic. The licensing body is District of Columbia Department of Health, Health Regulation and Licensing Administration. You must pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive).
How much does a paramedic make in District of Columbia?
paramedics in District of Columbia earn a median of $45,920 annually. This exceeds the $41,340 national median by 11%. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $37,900, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $71,520.
What's the total cost to get paramedic certified in District of Columbia?
The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($175) and application fee ($190) and required training.
How long does it take to become a paramedic in District of Columbia?
Expect to spend 1-2 years from start to finish in District of Columbia — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.
How many CE hours do paramedics need in District of Columbia?
License renewal in District of Columbia requires completing 60.0 hours of continuing education on a 2.0-year cycle.

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