How to Get a Paramedic License in Pennsylvania
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Quick Facts
Education
170 hrs
Total Cost
$1,800
Governing Body
Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS
Pennsylvania is a varied market ranging from Philadelphia's urban core to rural communities, making it an excellent place to start a career as a paramedic. Licensing in Pennsylvania is overseen by the Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS. The process requires 170 hours of pre-license education and costs between $1,300 and $2,300 in total. You'll need to pass the NREMT (administered by Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS) with a score of at least 70%.
At 170 hours, Pennsylvania has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 170 hours. Budget between $1,300 and $2,300 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring paramedics complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
PennsylvaniaParamedic License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 16 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 170 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — NREMT |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Exam Fee | $80 |
| Governing Body | Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Paramedic License in Pennsylvania
- 1
Complete an EMT Training Program
Enroll in and complete an approved EMT-Basic training program (170 hours). Programs are offered at community colleges, fire academies, and EMS training centers.
Time: 3-6 months Cost: $350 - 2
Obtain CPR/BLS Certification
Get certified in CPR for Healthcare Providers (BLS) through the American Heart Association or equivalent organization. This is required before taking the NREMT exam.
Time: 1 day Cost: $75 - 3
Pass the NREMT Examination
Register and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive and psychomotor exams. The exam fee is $80.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $80 - 4
Apply for State Certification
Submit your application to the Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS. Include NREMT certification, CPR card, and the application fee of $25.
Time: 2-4 weeks Cost: $25 - 5
Begin Working as an EMT
Once certified, you can work as an EMT in Pennsylvania with ambulance services, fire departments, hospitals, or event medical teams.
Time: Immediate once certified
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The NREMT is administered by Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Pennsylvania requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Pennsylvania accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 36 hours of continuing education every 3 years. .
How Pennsylvania Compares
Pennsylvania requires 170 hours of pre-license education for paramedics. This is close to the national average of 170 hours. The average total cost in Pennsylvania is around $1,800, compared to the national average of $1,778. Pennsylvania's 3-year renewal cycle is longer than the national average of 2.3 years.
How Much Does a Paramedic License Cost in Pennsylvania?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $25 |
| Exam Fee | $80 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,300 - $2,300 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 3 years
- Continuing Education:36 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $25
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 170 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Look for free or subsidized training: Many fire departments and volunteer EMS agencies offer free EMT training in exchange for a service commitment. Community college programs are typically $1,000-$2,000 — much cheaper than private training centers.
- Use NREMT practice tests religiously: The NREMT cognitive exam uses computer adaptive testing. Focus on airway management, cardiac emergencies, and trauma. EMTprep and Pocket Prep apps are excellent study tools. Most successful candidates complete 500+ practice questions.
- Budget approximately $2,300 for your Pennsylvania license: This includes $25 in application fees, $80 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $25 in renewal fees every 3 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a paramedic license in Pennsylvania?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (170 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a paramedic license in Pennsylvania?
The total cost ranges from $1,300 to $2,300, including pre-license education, the application fee ($25), and the exam fee ($80).
Can I get a Pennsylvania paramedic license with a criminal record?
The Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a paramedic in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 170 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Pennsylvania?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Pennsylvania Department of Health - Bureau of EMS website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
Professional Associations & Resources
Connect with these national organizations for career resources, networking, and continuing education.
Compare With Other States
Paramedic in Other States
From Our Blog
Cheapest States for Professional Licensing (2026)
Which states have the lowest professional licensing costs? We ranked all 50 states by average licensing cost across 49 professions.
The 10 Cheapest Professional Licenses to Get in 2026
The 10 most affordable professional licenses ranked by total cost. Get licensed for under $500 and start earning $40,000-$75,000/yr.
The Highest-Paying Licensed Careers That Don't Require a 4-Year Degree
12 high-paying licensed careers you can start without a bachelor's degree. Real salary data, licensing costs, and education requirements for each profession.