Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
EMT/Paramedic Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for emt/paramedic in Washington, 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 Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
Individuals must have a high school diploma or GED, must complete Approved Paramedic Training Course, must be associated with a licensed EMS agency, a law enforcement agency, a business with an organized industrial safety team or be senior EMS instructors or coordinators.
- 7
Individuals must submit application and pay required fee.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$100,780 median (73% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for EMT/Paramedic licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individuals must submit application and pay required fee.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $100,780, EMT/Paramedics in Washington earn 73% above the national median of $58,410. Washington ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$100,780Hourly estimate
$48.4573% above national median
Difference: +$42,370
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEMT/Paramedic Salary Ranking
#1 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 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
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $60,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a EMT/Paramedic in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
The board typically expects Specific course required for EMT/Paramedic licensure in Washington.
What is the typical EMT/Paramedic salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for EMT/Paramedics in Washington is $100,780. Salaries range from $52,730 (10th percentile) to $134,260 (90th percentile).
How does the EMT/Paramedic salary in Washington compare to the national average?
EMT/Paramedics in Washington earn 73% above the national median of $58,410, with a state median of $100,780.
How many EMT/Paramedics work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 2,120 EMT/Paramedics according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my EMT/Paramedic license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a EMT/Paramedic license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.