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.

1. High School Diploma or GED
   A high school diploma or equivalent is required to begin EMT or Paramedic training.

2. EMT-Basic Certification
   Complete an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-Basic) course approved by the CDPHE. This serves as the foundation for Paramedic-level training.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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?

1. Graduate from high school or earn a GED
   This is the foundation for all Paramedic programs.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Pass the NREMT Paramedic exam
   The written and skills exams assess advanced-level emergency care knowledge.

5. Create an OATH account and apply for certification
   Log in to the Online Application Tracking Hub (OATH) to submit your certification application to CDPHE.

6. 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.

7. 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.