Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for EMT/Paramedic 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 agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Emergency Medical Services Authority • Emergency Medical Services Personnel Division • Paramedic Program
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$72,180 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 72,180, EMT/Paramedics in California earn 24% above the national median of $58,410. California ranks #5 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
$72,180Hourly estimate
$34.7024% above national median
Difference: +$13,770
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#5 of 50 statesfor EMT/Paramedic median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 100,780 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 80,100 |
| #3 | Connecticut | 75,400 |
| #4 | Oregon | 73,380 |
| #5 | California | 72,180 |
Nearby States Comparison
EMT/Paramedic licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $72,180 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $73,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $60,320 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $50,860 | 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. Verify directly with the agency.
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 EMT/Paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedic salary in California?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in California is 72,180. Salaries range from $49,080 (10th percentile) to $101,550 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in California compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in California earn 24% above the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 72,180.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in California?
California employs approximately 6,090 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for EMT/Paramedics 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/.