Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for EMT/Paramedic in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Emergency Medical Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,650 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 47,650, EMT/Paramedics in Kentucky earn 18% below the national median of $58,410. Kentucky ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$47,650Hourly estimate
$22.9118% below national median
Difference: -$10,760
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#48 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Ohio | $47,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $48,190 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $58,570 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,860 | 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 |
| Illinois | $59,110 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
Board of Emergency Medical Services
700 Capitol Avenue, Suite 132, Lexington, KY, 40601
Phone: 8592563565
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for EMT/Paramedics.
What education do you need to become a EMT/Paramedic in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Specific course required for EMT/Paramedic licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical EMT/Paramedic salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in Kentucky is 47,650. Salaries range from $35,470 (10th percentile) to $64,730 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in Kentucky earn 18% below the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 47,650.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 2,060 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic 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 EMT/Paramedics in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Board of Emergency Medical Services. Review agency details at https://kbems.ky.gov/.