How to Become a Paramedic in Colorado (2025)

Q: How to Become a Paramedic in Colorado?

Graduate from high school or earn a GED This is the foundation for all Paramedic programs.Earn your EMT-Basic certification Enroll in a CDPHE-approved EMT course and pass the NREMT exam. Work experience as an EMT is often recommended before advancing.Complete a Paramedic education program Paramedic training covers anatomy, pharmacology, advanced airway management, and patient assessment. Training involves 1,200–1,800 hours of instruction over 12 to 24 months.Pass the NREMT Paramedic exam The written and skills exams assess advanced-level emergency care knowledge.Create an OATH account and apply for certification Log in to the Online Application Tracking Hub (OATH) to submit your certification application to CDPHE.Complete fingerprinting and background check Submit your CBI and FBI fingerprint results within 60 days of your OATH application. Keep proof of submission for your records.Receive your state certification CDPHE will review your application and issue your certification once all requirements are met.

By Sunshine Lyn TupanUpdated May 20, 2026

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Becoming a Paramedic in Colorado opens the door to a vital, fast-paced healthcare career. Paramedics in the state earn an average of $67,350 per year ($32.38 per hour) according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024). This guide outlines the education, certification, and licensing requirements from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) to help you begin your Paramedic journey.

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Key Points

Paramedics provide advanced emergency care in life-threatening situations.
Colorado requires EMT-Basic certification before Paramedic training.
Programs last 1 to 2 years and include 1,200–1,800 hours of instruction and clinical practice.
Paramedics must pass the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam and apply through the OATH system for state licensure.
Colorado Paramedics earn about $67,350 per year, per BLS.
Find local Paramedic jobs on MyNextMove.

What is a Paramedic?

A paramedic is a highly trained medical professional who provides emergency medical care to individuals in critical situations. They are responsible for assessing patients, administering necessary medical treatments, and transporting patients to healthcare facilities when needed. Paramedics often work in high-stress environments and must make quick decisions to save lives.

Requirements to Become a Paramedic in Colorado

To become a Paramedic in Colorado, you must meet both educational and state licensing requirements.

High School Diploma or GED A high school diploma or equivalent is required to begin EMT or Paramedic training.
EMT-Basic Certification Complete an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-Basic) course approved by the CDPHE. This serves as the foundation for Paramedic-level training.
Complete a Paramedic Training Program Enroll in a CAAHEP-accredited or CDPHE-approved Paramedic program. Programs typically take 1 to 2 years to complete and combine classroom instruction, field internships, and hospital rotations.
Pass the NREMT Paramedic Exam After training, pass both the written and psychomotor portions of the NREMT Paramedic exam to demonstrate your clinical and procedural competence.
Apply for State Certification through OATH Colorado requires all EMS professionals to apply for certification via the Online Application Tracking Hub (OATH). Paramedics must have a current NREMT registration before submitting their application.
Submit Fingerprint-Based Background Check Applicants must complete a criminal history record check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Both FBI and CBI results are required and must be submitted within 60 days before or after submitting the OATH application.

Prior background checks from other organizations are not accepted.
Failure to apply within 60 days of fingerprinting may require a new submission and fee.

Provide Additional Documentation You’ll need to upload:

A copy of your valid NREMT certification
A valid CPR card
A valid Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) card (Paramedic applicants only)

Once your documents, fingerprints, and NREMT results are verified, CDPHE will issue your Colorado EMS provider certification, valid for three years.

How to Become a Paramedic in Colorado?

Graduate from high school or earn a GED This is the foundation for all Paramedic programs.
Earn your EMT-Basic certification Enroll in a CDPHE-approved EMT course and pass the NREMT exam. Work experience as an EMT is often recommended before advancing.
Complete a Paramedic education program Paramedic training covers anatomy, pharmacology, advanced airway management, and patient assessment. Training involves 1,200–1,800 hours of instruction over 12 to 24 months.
Pass the NREMT Paramedic exam The written and skills exams assess advanced-level emergency care knowledge.
Create an OATH account and apply for certification Log in to the Online Application Tracking Hub (OATH) to submit your certification application to CDPHE.
Complete fingerprinting and background check Submit your CBI and FBI fingerprint results within 60 days of your OATH application. Keep proof of submission for your records.
Receive your state certification CDPHE will review your application and issue your certification once all requirements are met.

Renewal and Reinstatement of Certification

Colorado Paramedic certifications are valid for three years. Renewal can be completed through the OATH system if you are within six months of your expiration date.

Renewal Requirements

To renew your certification, you must:

Complete the required amount of continuing education (CE) for your practice level.
Demonstrate skills competency, verified by your EMS education program.
Log in to your OATH account and apply for renewal certification.
Provide proof of a valid NREMT number or use the state renewal method if not registered with NREMT.

Continuing education can be completed through approved programs or workshops recognized by CDPHE.

Reinstatement After Expiration

If your certification has lapsed for more than six months, you must:

Reapply using the initial certification process through OATH.
Provide a valid NREMT registration at your practice level.
Complete fingerprinting and meet all background check requirements again.

Certification Level Upgrade and Intermediate-99

If you wish to upgrade to a higher certification level:

Complete and pass a course at the higher level.
Pass the written and psychomotor NREMT exams.
Apply for the upgraded certification using your OATH account and new NREMT number.

Colorado still recognizes the Intermediate-99 level for those already certified. However, new applicants must meet current NREMT Paramedic standards. Renewal for Intermediate-99 holders is done using state CE and skills attestation.

Where to Find Paramedic Classes in Colorado

Colorado offers Paramedic training at community colleges and technical schools approved by the CDPHE. Many programs provide flexible schedules, hybrid formats, and financial aid for qualified students.

Use Dreambound to find and compare Paramedic classes near you.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Paramedic

Certified Paramedics in Colorado can work in:

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies
Fire departments
Hospitals and trauma centers
Air medical transport as Flight Paramedics
Search and rescue organizations
Education or EMS management roles

With experience and ongoing education, Paramedics can advance into leadership or specialized emergency response positions. Certified Paramedics in Colorado can work in:

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies
Fire departments
Hospitals and trauma centers
Air medical transport as Flight Paramedics
Search and rescue organizations
Education or EMS management roles

With experience and ongoing education, Paramedics can advance into leadership or specialized emergency response positions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a Paramedic in Colorado? Paramedic training in Colorado takes 1 to 2 years, plus additional time for testing and licensing.

How much do Paramedics make in Colorado? The average annual salary is $67,350 or $32.38 per hour, according to the BLS.

How do I apply for Paramedic certification in Colorado? Create an OATH account, pass the NREMT exam, submit your background check, and upload your credentials to CDPHE for review.

How often do I renew my Paramedic license in Colorado? Every three years through the OATH system, with proof of continuing education and skills competency.

Are fingerprints required for certification? Yes. Both CBI and FBI fingerprint results are required within 60 days of your OATH application.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Paramedic in Colorado is a structured process that ensures readiness to handle life-saving emergencies. With accredited training, NREMT certification, and state licensure through CDPHE, you can begin a respected and impactful career in emergency healthcare.

If you're thinking of a new career path, Dreambound offers in-depth guides to understand various job choices: