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 18, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for EMT/Paramedic in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 3
Certification: Certification required.
- 4
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- 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 (6)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for EMT/Paramedic licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 5. Submit the application to Iowa Department of Public Health and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $68,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 1 month |
| Wisconsin | $56,010 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $59,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $55,600 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $54,170 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 1-18 years |
| South Dakota | $48,070 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
Official website verified
Iowa Department of Public Health
321 East 12th Street, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5152810620
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $385,010 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $49,700 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in Iowa?
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 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.
How often do you renew a EMT/Paramedic license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.