Public Safety

How to become a Paramedic

From EMT: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

12–24 months

Typical pay

$48k–$68k

Starting from

EMT

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from EMT and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   1–2 years

   Work as an EMT first

   Nearly all paramedic programs require documented field experience.

   ◆ NREMT-B

2. 2

   12–24 months

   Complete a paramedic program

   1,200+ hours: pharmacology, cardiology, advanced airway, field internship.

   Course that covers thisNREMT National Registry Emergency Medical Technician ExamUdemy · around $19.99 →
3. 3

   Pass the NREMT-Paramedic exam

   Substantially harder than the basic exam; most programs run dedicated prep.

   ◆ NREMT-P

4. 4

   3–6 months

   License and get a field internship

   You precept with an experienced medic before running calls as lead.

5. ✓

   Destination

   Paramedic

   Browse jobs now →

Course links are Udemy affiliate links. We earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.