Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in Illinois, 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 Illinois
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
Illinois Department of Public Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,110 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 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 Illinois
With a median salary of 59,110, EMT/Paramedics in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $58,410. Illinois ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$59,110Hourly estimate
$28.421% above national median
Difference: +$700
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $59,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $56,010 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $53,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $55,600 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $47,650 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $58,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Public Health
535 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL, 62761
Phone: 2177852080
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $67,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $66,940 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in Illinois?
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 Illinois?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in Illinois is 59,110. Salaries range from $39,520 (10th percentile) to $103,160 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in Illinois earn 1% above the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 59,110.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 4,680 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic license to Illinois 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 Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Public Health. Review agency details at http://www.idph.state.il.us/.