Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Emergency Medical Technician Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emergency medical technician in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Emergency Medical Technician in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Must be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language
- 2
Must have a high school diploma or G
- 3
Must score a minimum of 70 percent (70%) on the written examination and pass the practical examination
- 4
Education: Specific course required.
- 5
Experience: Work experience required.
- 6
Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.
- 7
Certification: Certification required.
- 8
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 9
Certificate, and complete a prescribed training course approved by the regulatory agency.
- 10
EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS Contact the regulatory agency regarding application procedures.
- 11
Practical Skills Certification exam must be passed before applicant is eligible to submit for the Written Certification exam.
- 12
Must score a minimum of 70 percent (70%) on the written examination and pass the practical examination.
- 13
$19.00 Kentucky Certification fee.
- 14
Exam fee may vary from one testing agency to another.
Exam and processing details
- Written and practical examinations administered at the end of each approved course
Continuing education and program notes
- certificate, and complete a prescribed training course approved by the regulatory agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Emergency Medical Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$36,050 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Confirm eligibility prerequisites (Practical Skills Certification exam must be passed before applicant is eligible to submit for the Written Certification exam.).
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required Written and practical examinations administered at the end of each approved course.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Felony convictions prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.; Certificate, and complete a prescribed training course approved by the regulatory agency.).
- 6. Submit the application to Board of Emergency Medical Services and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $36,050, Emergency Medical Technicians in Kentucky earn 13% below the national median of $41,340. Kentucky ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$36,050Hourly estimate
$17.3313% below national median
Difference: -$5,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEmergency Medical Technician Salary Ranking
#43 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $36,050 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $39,850 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $38,140 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $35,060 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $45,060 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $37,630 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 3-18 years |
| Missouri | $38,580 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $40,780 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Emergency Medical Services
700 Capitol Avenue, Suite 132, Lexington, KY, 40601
Phone: 8592563565
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|---|---|---|---|
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Emergency Medical Technician in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Emergency Medical Technicians in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Emergency Medical Technicians.
What education do you need to become a Emergency Medical Technician in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Emergency Medical Technician licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Emergency Medical Technician salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Emergency Medical Technicians in Kentucky is $36,050. Salaries range from $27,290 (10th percentile) to $52,860 (90th percentile).
How does the Emergency Medical Technician salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Emergency Medical Technicians in Kentucky earn 13% below the national median of $41,340, with a state median of $36,050.
How many Emergency Medical Technicians work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 3,190 Emergency Medical Technicians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Emergency Medical Technician license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Emergency Medical Technicians in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Board of Emergency Medical Services. Review agency details at https://kbems.ky.gov/.
How often do you renew a Emergency Medical Technician license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.