Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in Texas, 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 Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Department of State Health Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$53,960 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#30 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 Texas
With a median salary of 53,960, EMT/Paramedics in Texas earn 8% below the national median of $58,410. Texas ranks #30 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$53,960Hourly estimate
$25.948% below national median
Difference: -$4,450
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#30 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $53,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $47,890 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $45,710 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $50,800 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $50,340 | Specific course required | State exam 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Texas Department of State Health Services
PO Box 149347, Austin, TX, 78714-9347
Phone: 5127767111
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $87,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $42,270 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas 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 Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for EMT/Paramedic licensure in Texas.
What is the typical EMT/Paramedic salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in Texas is 53,960. Salaries range from $39,120 (10th percentile) to $74,810 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in Texas compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in Texas earn 8% below the national median of $58,410, with a state median of 53,960.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 8,560 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic license to Texas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for EMT/Paramedics in Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Department of State Health Services. Review agency details at https://dshs.texas.gov/.