Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Emergency Medical Technician Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emergency medical technician in California, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Emergency Medical Technician in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Emergency Medical Services Authority • Emergency Medical Services Personnel Division • Paramedic Program
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$45,680 median (10% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Emergency Medical Technician licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the Emergency Medical Services Authority~Emergency Medical Services Personnel Division~Paramedic Program.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 45,680, Emergency Medical Technicians in California earn 10% above the national median of 41340. California ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$45,680Hourly estimate
$21.9610% above national median
Difference: +$4,340
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEmergency Medical Technician Salary Ranking
#13 of 50 statesfor Emergency Medical Technician median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 61,310 |
| #2 | Alaska | 56,900 |
| #3 | New Jersey | 49,500 |
| #4 | Rhode Island | 49,500 |
| #5 | Washington | 48,850 |
Nearby States Comparison
Emergency Medical Technician licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $45,680 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $48,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $38,980 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $38,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Emergency Medical Services Authority • Emergency Medical Services Personnel Division • Paramedic Program
11120 International Drive, Suite 200, Rancho Cordova, CA, 95670
Phone: 9163239875
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Emergency Medical Technician in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Emergency Medical Technician salary in California?
The median annual salary for Emergency Medical Technicians in California is 45,680. Salaries range from 37370 (10th percentile) to 76630 (90th percentile).
How does the Emergency Medical Technician salary in California compare to the national average?
Emergency Medical Technicians in California earn 10% above the national median of 41340, with a state median of 45,680.
How many Emergency Medical Technicians work in California?
California employs approximately 19020 Emergency Medical Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Emergency Medical Technician license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Emergency Medical Technicians in California?
The licensing agency is Emergency Medical Services Authority / Emergency Medical Services Personnel Division / Paramedic Program. Review agency details at https://emsa.ca.gov/.