Paramedic / Pennsylvania
2026 data Pennsylvania board official source

Pennsylvania Paramedic License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Provides advanced emergency medical care in the field.

What the Pennsylvania data shows for Paramedics

To practice as a paramedic in Pennsylvania, the state licensing board requires 1,654 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NREMT Paramedic Exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Pennsylvania's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Paramedic Training Program".

Upfront cost is $164, with renewal running $135 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 72 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

For paramedics, the reciprocity picture is: Interstate EMS Compact: 30+ states.

Licensing Requirements in Pennsylvania

Education / Training Hours
Paramedic Training Program
1,654 hours
Exam Requirement
NREMT Paramedic Exam
Required
Initial License Fee
$164
Renewal Fee
$135
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
72 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Pennsylvania licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Paramedic in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania's requirements cover 1654 hours of education or training, the NREMT Paramedic Exam exam, and an initial fee of $164. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Paramedic in Pennsylvania?
Certification as a paramedic in Pennsylvania means clearing the state's checklist: 1654 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Pennsylvania licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Paramedic license to Pennsylvania from another state?
Paramedic licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Interstate EMS Compact: 30+ states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Pennsylvania licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Pennsylvania require a background check for Paramedic licensing?
Background screening is part of the paramedic licensing process in Pennsylvania. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Paramedic in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania ties continued paramedic licensure to 72 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $135 renewal fee.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites