Paramedic in Florida

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

Median annual salary

$40,420

trending_down -2.2% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Florida.

engineering

6,770

Jobs (FL)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$220

Licensing fees

schedule

1-2 years

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in Florida

To become a certified Paramedic in Florida, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program that is accredited by CAAHEP or has a CoAEMSP letter of review, and hold a current EMT certification. Applicants must pass the NREMT cognitive exam, complete an application with the Florida Department of Health, and undergo a Level 2 background screening. While Florida does not offer reciprocity, out-of-state applicants with current NREMT certification can apply, provided they meet all other state requirements.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $33,180

25th percentile $36,850

50th (median) $40,420

75th percentile $46,350

90th (experienced) $60,230

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

checklist Florida requirements

Licensing body	Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program accredited by CAAHEP or with a CoAEMSP letter of review; current EMT certification; high school diploma or GED; CPR/BLS certification; ACLS certification; HIV/AIDS training; background check; physical exam; minimum age 18.
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive) ($175)
Application fee	$45
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing education	30.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age 18. The NREMT Paramedic exam no longer includes a psychomotor component as of July 1, 2024. First-time renewals are exempt from CE requirements but must have current CPR/ACLS certification. A Level 2 background screening (FDLE and FBI fingerprint check) is required. Paramedic programs must be a minimum of 700 hours of didactic and skills practice components. Out-of-state applicants must have current NREMT certification. Florida does not have an AEMT level.

Source: Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight

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

psychology

Wondering if a paramedic career is the right fit?

See what the day actually looks like, who the role suits, and who should skip it — grounded in real practitioner sources.

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Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a paramedic in Florida? expand_more

In Florida, becoming a paramedic requires you to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program accredited by CAAHEP or with a CoAEMSP letter of review; current EMT certification; high school diploma or GED; CPR/BLS certification; ACLS certification; HIV/AIDS training; background check; physical exam; minimum age 18.), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive), and submit your application ($45 fee).

Do I need a license to work as a paramedic in Florida? expand_more

Yes, Florida requires a state license to practice as a paramedic. The licensing body is Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight. You must pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive).

What is the average paramedic salary in Florida? expand_more

In Florida, the median pay for paramedics comes to $40,420/year. — within a few percent of the $41,340 national figure. Wages range from $33,180 (10th percentile) up to $60,230 (90th percentile).

How much does it cost to become a paramedic in Florida? expand_more

Between exam fee ($175) and application fee ($45), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How many months or years does paramedic certification take in Florida? expand_more

In Florida, becoming a paramedic generally takes 1-2 years, accounting for education requirements, hands-on training, and the exam process.

What's required to renew a paramedic license in Florida? expand_more

Yes — paramedics in Florida must complete 30.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.

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