Paramedic in Tennessee

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

Median annual salary

$37,630

trending_down -9.0% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Tennessee.

engineering

3,420

Jobs (TN)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$250

Licensing fees

schedule

1-2 years

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in Tennessee

To become a licensed Paramedic in Tennessee, individuals must complete a state-approved paramedic program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive exam. The licensing body is the Tennessee Department of Health, Office of EMS. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and undergo a criminal background check. Reciprocity is available for out-of-state licensees with current or past National Registry certification.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $28,440

25th percentile $31,210

50th (median) $37,630

75th percentile $46,890

90th (experienced) $52,210

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

checklist Tennessee requirements

Licensing body	Tennessee Department of Health, Office of EMS
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175)
Application fee	$75
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing education	40.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age is 18. Must possess a high school diploma or GED. A criminal background check is required. Applicants must also submit two letters from medical professionals attesting to their moral character. As of July 1, 2024, the NREMT Paramedic exam no longer includes a psychomotor component. The initial licensing process must be completed within two years of program completion.

Source: Tennessee Department of 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_circleTennessee 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 are the steps to becoming a paramedic in Tennessee? expand_more

The path to paramedic licensure in Tennessee: complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($75 fee).

Does Tennessee require paramedic licensure? expand_more

Tennessee mandates state licensure for paramedics. Tennessee Department of Health, Office of EMS oversees the process, which includes passing the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor).

How much does a paramedic make in Tennessee? expand_more

paramedics in Tennessee earn a median of $37,630 annually. — 9% under the $41,340 national average. The range spans from $28,440 at the entry level to $52,210 for top earners.

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

Between exam fee ($175) and application fee ($75), expect to invest around varies in total to get started.

How long does it take to become a paramedic in Tennessee? expand_more

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

How many CE hours do paramedics need in Tennessee? expand_more

To keep your license active, Tennessee mandates 40.0 CE hours every 2.0 years.