Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
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: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$52,860 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 52,860, EMT/Paramedics in Tennessee earn 10% below the national median of $58,410. Tennessee ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$52,860Hourly estimate
$25.4110% below national median
Difference: -$5,550
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $52,860 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $47,650 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $58,570 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $51,110 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $51,740 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $45,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $51,290 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $45,710 | 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Kentucky | 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. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
"665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd Floor", Na, 000TN-7243
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The board typically expects Specific course required for EMT/Paramedic licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical EMT/Paramedic salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in Tennessee is 52,860. Salaries range from $38,310 (10th percentile) to $75,960 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in Tennessee earn 10% below the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 52,860.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 3,320 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic license to Tennessee from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.