Paramedic in Michigan

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

Median annual salary

$38,890

trending_down -5.9% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Michigan.

engineering

4,160

Jobs (MI)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$255

Licensing fees

schedule

1-2 years

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in Michigan

To become a licensed Paramedic in Michigan, individuals must be at least 18 years old and first obtain EMT certification. The process involves completing a state-approved Paramedic program, passing the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive exam, and submitting an application with an $80 fee to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, EMS Section. Licenses are renewed every three years, requiring 45 hours of continuing education and current CPR certification. Michigan offers reciprocity for out-of-state paramedics who have passed the NREMT exam.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $35,300

25th percentile $37,030

50th (median) $38,890

75th percentile $44,830

90th (experienced) $50,950

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

checklist Michigan requirements

Licensing body	Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, EMS Section
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175)
Application fee	$80
Renewal	Every 3.0 years
Continuing education	45.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age of 18. Renewal requires 45 hours of continuing education or an approved refresher course, and current CPR certification. Michigan uses the NREMT for examination purposes only and does not require maintaining NREMT certification for license renewal. A background check is required. Must be a licensed EMT first, and most paramedic programs require 6-12 months of EMT work experience.

Source: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, EMS Section

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_circleMichigan 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 Michigan? expand_more

The path to paramedic licensure in Michigan: complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($80 fee).

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

A state license is required in Michigan. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, EMS Section handles paramedic licensing — the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) is part of the process.

What is the average paramedic salary in Michigan? expand_more

In Michigan, the median pay for paramedics comes to $38,890/year. This trails the $41,340 national median by 6%. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $35,300, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $50,950.

What's the total cost to get paramedic certified in Michigan? expand_more

Plan on spending varies total — that covers exam fee ($175) and application fee ($80) plus your education and training.

What's the timeline to become a paramedic in Michigan? expand_more

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

Does Michigan require continuing education for paramedics? expand_more

To keep your license active, Michigan mandates 45.0 CE hours every 3.0 years.