Paramedic in Virginia

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

Median annual salary

$45,060

trending_up +9.0% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Virginia.

engineering

3,780

Jobs (VA)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$325

Licensing fees

schedule

1-2 years

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in Virginia

To become a certified Paramedic in Virginia, individuals must complete a state-approved Paramedic program and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Paramedic cognitive exam. The licensing body is the Virginia Department of Health, Office of EMS. A minimum age of 18 and a background check are required, and CPR certification is a prerequisite for program admission. Virginia recognizes current National Registry certifications for reciprocity.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $33,890

25th percentile $37,900

50th (median) $45,060

75th percentile $48,630

90th (experienced) $57,700

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

checklist Virginia requirements

Licensing body	Virginia Department of Health, Office of EMS
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($175)
Application fee	$150
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing education	60.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age of 18. Requires a background check. CPR certification is a prerequisite for program admission. Virginia-trained paramedics who achieve NREMT-Paramedic certification will automatically receive Virginia Paramedic certification. Out-of-state paramedics with current National Registry certification can apply for reciprocity. Those with current EMS certification from another state (but not NREMT) may be eligible for Legal Recognition at the EMT level only.

Source: Virginia 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_circleVirginia 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

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

To become a paramedic in Virginia, you need to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor), and submit your application ($150 fee).

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

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

What do paramedics earn in Virginia? expand_more

Virginia paramedics bring home a median salary of $45,060. That's 9% above the national median of $41,340. New paramedics start around $33,890; seasoned professionals can reach $57,700.

What are the fees to become a paramedic in Virginia? expand_more

The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($175) and application fee ($150) and required training.

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

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

How many CE hours do paramedics need in Virginia? expand_more

Virginia requires 60.0 hours of continuing education every 2.0 years to maintain your paramedic license.