If you’re training for the EMT exam in California, you’re probably thinking about all of the places this career can take you. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics both work in emergency medical services (EMS), providing life-saving support during emergencies. The main difference between paramedics and EMTs in California is that paramedics have more education, training, and experience than EMTs and are licensed to perform more advanced procedures.
Many people learning how to become an EMT in California will eventually work towards their paramedic certification. But what does the training look like for each role, what are their job duties, and how much can you expect to earn as an EMT versus a paramedic? Let’s dive into these important EMS roles so you can choose your career path with confidence!
Understanding EMTs
EMTs are a step above emergency medical responders (EMRs) in the hierarchy of EMS professionals. They have more training and experience than EMRs, but less than paramedics. Usually, people earn their EMT certification before they become a paramedic.
Requirements
You need to be at least eighteen years old and have a high school diploma or GED to become an EMT. Then, you need to enroll into a state-approved EMT training program. You can find a complete list of approved programs on the California Emergency Medical Services Authority’s (CEMSA) website. If your program is not approved, you may not qualify for certification.
How long is an EMT training program in California? Most programs range between two and six months. After you complete your training program, you’ll need to take the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians’ (NREMT) exam. The cognitive exam is a multiple-choice, adaptive exam that tests your knowledge.
Finally, you’ll need to get your license from your local EMS agency. You can find yours on the CEMSA website.
Job Duties
When you’re an EMT, every day on the job is different from the last. EMTs operate ambulances and other safety equipment, provide basic life support and transportation of sick or injured patients, and restock ambulances.
Other duties include:
- Observing patients’ conditions and treatments provided
- Inspecting ambulance equipment
- Lifting, transferring, and maneuvering patients in and out of ambulances and other locations
- Cleaning and disinfecting the ambulance
- Completing accurate records and documentation of transport, equipment inspections, supply usage, and other relevant documentation
EMTs often provide assistance and support to other EMS personnel on their teams, but can only provide the care they are trained to do. This means they might not be able to perform the same advanced procedures as a paramedic.
Average Salary in California
Depending on your experience and location, you can make between $34,000 to $53,000 per year in California. This range is based on 2024 data. If you want tips on negotiating your salary like an expert, you can connect with our exclusive Paramedic Coach community when you sign up for our Video Vault!
Understanding Paramedics
Paramedics usually have the highest standing on their EMS team, and lower-ranking EMS personnel look to them to lead the way during an emergency. They have the most training and experience of all EMS personnel.
Requirements
Paramedics–like EMTs–must be at least eighteen years old and have a high school diploma or GED. They must have a valid driver’s license and proof of current immunizations. Paramedics also have their own training program that they must complete, and the program must be accredited or approved by the CEMSA. These programs are typically 1,090 hours long with a minimum of 450 hours of lecture-style learning and skills labs.
Paramedics should also have a current CPR and EMT certification, and they need to pass the written exam for the NREMT. This exam is similar in format to the EMT exam, with an adaptive multiple-choice exam that tests their knowledge.
Then, they must register with their local EMS registry to get their license. Just like with EMT registration, they are required to undergo a background check and often a drug screening. Once all of that information is processed and cleared, they are officially a paramedic in California!
Job Duties
Paramedics are trained to perform a wider range of life-saving interventions and equipment compared to EMTs. This includes:
- Intubations: The process of inserting a tube into a patient’s windpipe through their mouth to help them breathe
- Intravenous (IV) or intraosseous (IO) access
- Medication administration
- EKG monitoring
Otherwise, paramedics share many of the same responsibilities and job duties as an EMT. Their training allows them to perform these more advanced medical interventions.
Average Salary in California
As of 2024, the average salary for a paramedic in California ranges between $45,000 to $74,000 per year. This figure will depend on location, cost of living, and level of experience.
The Video Vault: EMT and Paramedic Test Prep
Are you ready to dive into the world of EMS? You can increase your chances of passing the NREMT on the first try by using the right study tools designed by experts for students like you. That’s why we’ve developed our Video Vault–an all-in-one resource hub to help you ace your EMS course and the NREMT exams. Sign up today for lifetime access!
