Paramedic in Alabama

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AL. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary

$36,260

trending_down -12.3% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Alabama.

engineering

2,420

Jobs (AL)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$200

Licensing fees

schedule

1-2 years

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in Alabama

To become a licensed Paramedic in Alabama, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and hold a current National Registry Paramedic (NREMT) certification. The licensing body is the Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS. Applicants must pass the NREMT cognitive and psychomotor exams, submit a paper application with a $40 fee, and undergo a criminal background check. Reciprocity is available for Nationally Registered Paramedics who complete an Alabama protocols course.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $27,420

25th percentile $29,900

50th (median) $36,260

75th percentile $44,990

90th (experienced) $49,370

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Alabama. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Alabama requirements

Licensing body	Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($160)
Application fee	$40
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing education	60.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age is 18 years old. A clear criminal history and background check are mandatory. As of August 1, 2025, an Alabama driver's license will not satisfy the requirement of proof of citizenship; initial licenses will need to provide a document from List A included with the application. All EMS personnel must obtain at least one hour of training annually on interacting with individuals with sensory needs and/or invisible disabilities, required for renewals in 2026 and beyond. The NREMT cognitive exam fee is $160, while psychomotor exam fees vary.

Source: Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth

+5.1%

Faster than average

Annual openings

14,100

Nationwide per year

Total employment

181,000

Nationwide

balance Is it worth it?

check_circleAlabama license required — clearer credential signal to employers
check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.1%)

psychology

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Frequently asked questions

What are the steps to becoming a paramedic in Alabama? expand_more

To become a paramedic in Alabama, you need to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($40 fee).

Does Alabama require paramedic licensure? expand_more

A state license is required in Alabama. Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of EMS handles paramedic licensing — the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) is part of the process.

How much does a paramedic make in Alabama? expand_more

paramedics in Alabama earn a median of $36,260 annually. This trails the $41,340 national median by 12%. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $27,420, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $49,370.

How expensive is paramedic licensing in Alabama? expand_more

Between exam fee ($160) and application fee ($40), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How quickly can I become a paramedic in Alabama? expand_more

Most candidates in Alabama complete the process in 1-2 years, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

How many CE hours do paramedics need in Alabama? expand_more

Yes — paramedics in Alabama must complete 60.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.