Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for EMT/Paramedic in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$53,470 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 53,470, EMT/Paramedics in Iowa earn 8% below the national median of $58,410. Iowa ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$53,470Hourly estimate
$25.718% below national median
Difference: -$4,940
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#31 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $53,470 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $68,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $56,010 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $59,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $55,600 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $54,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $48,070 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- 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
Iowa Department of Public Health
321 East 12th Street, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5152810620
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in Iowa?
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 exams are required for EMT/Paramedics in Iowa?
Iowa lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for EMT/Paramedics.
What education do you need to become a EMT/Paramedic in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for EMT/Paramedic licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical EMT/Paramedic salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in Iowa is 53,470. Salaries range from $42,640 (10th percentile) to $70,920 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in Iowa earn 8% below the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 53,470.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 1,110 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic license to Iowa 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 EMT/Paramedics in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Health. Review agency details at https://hhs.iowa.gov/public-health/emergency-medical-services-trauma.