Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for EMT/Paramedic in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Health & Human Services • Health Service Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$51,110 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 51,110, EMT/Paramedics in North Carolina earn 12% below the national median of $58,410. North Carolina ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$51,110Hourly estimate
$24.5712% below national median
Difference: -$7,300
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#36 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $51,110 | Specific course required | State 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 |
| Georgia | $51,740 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $50,130 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 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. |
| Georgia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Carolina | 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
NC Department of Health & Human Services • Health Service Regulation
2701 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC, 27699-2701
Phone: 9198553750
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for EMT/Paramedics.
What education do you need to become a EMT/Paramedic in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Specific course required for EMT/Paramedic licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical EMT/Paramedic salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in North Carolina is 51,110. Salaries range from $40,240 (10th percentile) to $70,630 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in North Carolina earn 12% below the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 51,110.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 5,330 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Health & Human Services / Health Service Regulation. Review agency details at https://info.ncdhhs.gov/dhsr/testrules.htm.