Paramedic in Texas

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

Median annual salary

$37,000

trending_down -10.5% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Texas.

engineering

13,550

Jobs (TX)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$295

Licensing fees

schedule

Varies (typically 1-2 years for education, plus application processing time)

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in Texas

To become a licensed Paramedic in Texas, individuals must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and successfully complete a DSHS-approved Paramedic program. Additionally, applicants for licensure must hold an associate degree in emergency medical services or a baccalaureate degree in any field. After completing the educational requirements, candidates must pass the National Registry Paramedic cognitive and psychomotor exams, undergo a Texas/FBI criminal history check, and submit an application with a $120 fee to the Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems. Texas offers reciprocity for out-of-state paramedics who meet specific criteria, including educational and examination requirements, and completion of a Texas jurisprudence exam.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $29,200

25th percentile $33,070

50th (median) $37,000

75th percentile $44,940

90th (experienced) $52,170

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

checklist Texas requirements

Licensing body	Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program AND an associate degree in EMS or a baccalaureate degree in any field.
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175)
Application fee	$120
Renewal	Every 4.0 years
Continuing education	144.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age 18. Requires a high school diploma or GED. Must pass a Texas/FBI criminal history check (fingerprinting required). The NREMT cognitive exam fee is $175.00. Psychomotor exam fees vary by location, with some sites charging around $250-$350. There are two levels for Paramedics in Texas: EMT-Paramedic certification (no degree required) and Paramedic Licensure (requires an associate degree in EMS or a four-year degree in any field). All renewal applicants must complete a Texas EMS jurisprudence examination.

Source: Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems

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_circleTexas 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?

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Frequently asked questions

How do you get certified as a paramedic in Texas? expand_more

To become a paramedic in Texas, you need to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program AND an associate degree in EMS or a baccalaureate degree in any field.), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($120 fee).

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

You cannot practice as a paramedic in Texas without a state license from Texas Department of State Health Services, EMS & Trauma Systems. The required exam is the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor).

What do paramedics earn in Texas? expand_more

The median paramedic salary in Texas is $37,000 per year. — 10% under the $41,340 national average. New paramedics start around $29,200; seasoned professionals can reach $52,170.

How expensive is paramedic licensing in Texas? expand_more

Costs include exam fee ($175) and application fee ($120). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.

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

The typical timeline in Texas is Varies (typically 1-2 years for education, plus application processing time). This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.

Does Texas require continuing education for paramedics? expand_more

License renewal in Texas requires completing 144.0 hours of continuing education on a 4.0-year cycle.