Paramedic in West Virginia

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

Median annual salary

$35,060

trending_down -15.2% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, West Virginia.

engineering

1,150

Jobs (WV)

monitoring Strong

+5.1%

10-yr job growth

payments

$235

Licensing fees

schedule

1-2 years

Time to complete

route How to become a paramedic in West Virginia

To become a certified Paramedic in West Virginia, individuals must complete a Paramedic Education Program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive and psychomotor exams. The licensing body is the West Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services (WVOEMS). Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a current EMT certification, undergo state and national background checks, and complete additional required trainings such as Hazmat Awareness and MCI Awareness and Operations. West Virginia participates in the EMS Compact, facilitating reciprocity for paramedics licensed in other compact states.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $28,250

25th percentile $30,390

50th (median) $35,060

75th percentile $38,360

90th (experienced) $44,570

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

checklist West Virginia requirements

Licensing body	West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Office of EMS
State license	Required
Education	State-approved Paramedic program
Exam	NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) ($160)
Application fee	$75
Renewal	Every 2.0 years
Continuing education	60.0 hours per cycle
Notes	Minimum age 18. Requires a state and national background check. Must possess a current EMT certification. Also requires Hazmat Awareness training, WVOEMS approved MCI Awareness and Operations Training (6 hours), an approved CPR training course at the professional/healthcare provider level, and the current WVOEMS Protocol course for the appropriate level.

Source: West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, 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_circleWest Virginia license required — clearer credential signal to employers
check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+5.1%)

psychology

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Frequently asked questions

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

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

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

A state license is required in West Virginia. West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Office of EMS handles paramedic licensing — the NREMT Paramedic (Cognitive and Psychomotor) is part of the process.

How much do paramedics make in West Virginia? expand_more

In West Virginia, the median pay for paramedics comes to $35,060/year. That's 15% below the national median of $41,340. New paramedics start around $28,250; seasoned professionals can reach $44,570.

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

Costs include exam fee ($160) and application fee ($75). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.

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

The typical timeline in West Virginia is 1-2 years. This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.

How many CE hours do paramedics need in West Virginia? expand_more

Yes — paramedics in West Virginia must complete 60.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.