Paramedic in Washington

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

Median annual salary

$48,850

trending_up +18.2% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Washington.

engineering

3,280

Jobs (WA)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$175

Licensing fees

schedule

1-2 years

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in Washington

To become a certified Paramedic in Washington, 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 Washington State Department of Health, EMS & Trauma Systems. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and undergo a background check. Additionally, affiliation with a licensed EMS agency and approval from a county medical program director are required for licensure. Washington offers reciprocity for out-of-state paramedics who meet specific criteria, including an approved HIV/AIDS course.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $37,560

25th percentile $39,810

50th (median) $48,850

75th percentile $54,060

90th (experienced) $62,270

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

checklist Washington requirements

Licensing body	Washington State Department of Health, EMS & Trauma Systems
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive) ($175)
Renewal	Every 3.0 years
Continuing education	150.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and hold a high school diploma or GED. A background check is required. In-state applicants must hold EMT certification for one year before commencing paramedic studies. All applicants need approval from the medical director of the county in which they will be working and proof of affiliation with a licensed EMS agency. The NREMT Paramedic exam no longer includes a psychomotor component as of July 1, 2024. Psychomotor exam fees varied by location prior to this change.

Source: Washington State Department of Health, 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_circleWashington 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 Washington? expand_more

In Washington, becoming a paramedic requires you to complete the required education (State-approved Paramedic program), and pass the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive).

Does Washington require paramedic licensure? expand_more

Washington mandates state licensure for paramedics. Washington State Department of Health, EMS & Trauma Systems oversees the process, which includes passing the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive).

What do paramedics earn in Washington? expand_more

paramedics in Washington earn a median of $48,850 annually. This exceeds the $41,340 national median by 18%. The range spans from $37,560 at the entry level to $62,270 for top earners.

How expensive is paramedic licensing in Washington? expand_more

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

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

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

How many CE hours do paramedics need in Washington? expand_more

To keep your license active, Washington mandates 150.0 CE hours every 3.0 years.