Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in Florida typically make between $31,000 and $39,000 per year, but this depends on the location they work in, the experience they bring to the table, and the shifts they work.
Currently, the minimum wage in Florida is about $14 per hour, depending on the county. The average hourly rate for EMTs ranged between $17 and $21 per hour, which is a pretty significant bump. But with inflation, many are wondering how they can make the most money in their role.
If you’ve completed your EMT training online or in-person in Florida, getting your EMT license will help get you a job more quickly so you can start earning more! In this post, we’ll discuss everything that can impact your pay as an EMT as well as the best test prep tools to get you in action sooner.
Factors That Impact Your Payday
There are many things that can impact your take-home pay when you work as an EMT in Florida. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind when understanding your paycheck:
Location
Location is one of the biggest factors impacting EMT salaries. EMT salaries vary based on location, with larger metropolitan cities paying EMTs more than those in rural areas. This is because these areas typically have a higher volume of emergency calls and a higher cost of living. These cities may also have larger budgets for emergency medical service contracts.
Demand also plays a role. Some locations may have a higher concentration of emergency medical service (EMS) professionals but a small enough population that there’s lower demand for EMTs. Low demand can mean lower pay.
Experience
EMTs with a current license to practice in Florida and more years of experience tend to earn more than newer EMTs. While training programs can prepare you for the real-life emergencies you will respond to, actually working on the site of an accident and having a wealth of lived experience on the job can definitely reflect in your hourly rate.
Shift Differentials
Certain shifts may pay a higher hourly rate than others. For example, working during daylight hours on weekdays tends to pay a little less than graveyard shifts or weekend shifts because they are the most desirable shifts. Most organizations will pay a slightly higher rate for EMTs who work overnights and weekends, so if you want to boost your paycheck, you can request those shifts.
Accredited Programs Matter
EMS organizations in Florida won’t hire an EMT who doesn’t have a current license to work as an EMT in Florida. This means even if you have an EMT license in another state, you need to go through the Florida Department of Health to update your license so you can legally practice in Florida.
Additionally, working without a current license can put you in legal hot water if things go bad. Working as an EMT without a license is illegal, and you cannot earn your license without passing an accredited program.
The Video Vault: Test Prep that Makes a Difference
If you’re currently working as an emergency medical technician (EMT) or are interested in a career in EMS, getting your EMT license can open up a whole new career pathway.
With our Video Vault, you will have unlimited access to more than 480 videos, knowledge check quizzes, and NREMT practice questions to prepare you for certification faster. Check it out today while this limited-time deal lasts!
Are you wondering where you can get an EMT certification or how much EMT school costs in Florida?
Don’t miss our latest posts!
