Paramedic License in North Carolina
Quick Answer
North Carolina paramedic certification through DHHS requires completing an approved course, passing a state exam, and meeting background check and physical requirements.
- Exam
- NREMT Paramedic Examination
- Timeline
- 12-18 months
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Every 2 years
Requirements
Paramedic license in North Carolina
Paramedic Salary in North Carolina
Entry Level
$40,240
Median
$51,110
Experienced
$70,630
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Paramedic in North Carolina.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — NREMT Paramedic Examination
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 12-18 months.
Paramedic Licensing in North Carolina: What to Know
North Carolina certifies paramedics through the Department of Health & Human Services, Health Service Regulation division. Paramedics provide both basic and advanced life support under the direct supervision of a medical doctor, and are certified to defibrillate, administer cardiac drugs, and perform endotracheal intubation. Certification requires a specific course, a state exam, work experience, and passing a background check for specific conviction types. Physical requirements also apply. North Carolina is notable for using a state exam rather than NREMT for paramedic credentialing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Paramedic license in North Carolina?
- The process typically takes 12-18 months, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Paramedic license in North Carolina?
- You need to pass the NREMT Paramedic Examination. State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Paramedic requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.