Ambulance drivers in the US: what requirements are required and how much does an ambulance driver earn?
In the U.S., an ambulance driver must undergo specific training, but this, somewhat like pay, varies from state to state
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Given the difficulties of driving a rescue vehicle in emergency conditions, it is clear that this role could benefit from specialized training, such as an emergency vehicle operator course (EVOC).
In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 6,500 crashes involving ambulances occur in the Usa each year.
Ironically, less than half the states require even a basic EVOC for this key public safety role.
According to a recent Department of Homeland Security survey, only 17 states and the District of Columbia require an Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC) for ambulance drivers.
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Is medical training required to become an ambulance driver in the US?
Although ambulances play a larger role in providing first responder health care, many states do not require medical training to legally drive an ambulance.
However, most EMS organizations hire only certified EMT professionals to drive ambulances.
In most EMS organizations, an EMT drives the ambulance as part of an expanded set of responsibilities.
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How to get hired as an ambulance driver in the US
Although requirements vary by employer, ambulance drivers generally have basic EMT level training.
All states require EMTs and paramedics to complete a formal EMT training program.
Depending on the program, basic EMT training can include up to 120 hours of classroom instruction and several days of clinical or field training.
To become certified, EMTs must also pass a written and practical examination at the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT).
Employers that do not require ambulance drivers to be EMTs often require ambulance drivers to be at least certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic life support (BLS).
These 1- or 2-day courses are available from the American Red Cross, universities and other community resources.
Some employers offer on-the-job training, but many employers require a safe ambulance driving course and a specialized ambulance driver certificate, such as the Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC).
Developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, this course combines classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
It covers topics such as safe driving, navigation and GPS, and legal requirements for ambulance drivers.
The course usually requires the student to have one year of emergency vehicle driving experience before obtaining the certificate.
How much are ambulance drivers paid in the US?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019 the average salary for ambulance drivers was $29,600 and the top 10% earned over $43,570.
On the other hand, the average salary for EMTs and paramedics was $37,760 and the highest 10% earned over $58,640 (BLS).
In addition, the demand for EMT-ambulance drivers is expected to grow faster than the career average through 2028 (BLS).
Ambulance driver in the U.S.: an overview of some states
How to become an ambulance driver in Nevada
Nevada requires every ambulance driver to be EMT-Basic certified or higher (with some exceptions for localities with a population of less than 2,000).
Nevada also requires ambulance drivers to successfully complete an EVOC program (source).
How to become an ambulance driver in California
In California, ambulance drivers are generally paramedics.
California does not require ambulance drivers to complete EVOC training, but does require an ambulance driver certificate.
Upon renewal of the ambulance driver certificate, drivers must hold a valid emergency medical technician certificate (EMT-1).
How to become an ambulance driver in New York City
In New York, ambulance drivers are generally paramedics.
At least one member of an ambulance crew must be an EMT.
New York does not require ambulance drivers to complete EVOC training.
Becoming an ambulance driver in Massachusetts: here’s how
Massachusetts requires that an ambulance driver be an EMT-Basic, certified by the National Registry of EMTs (NREMT) and obtain Massachusetts EMT certification.
Massachusetts does not require ambulance drivers to complete EVOC training.
How to become an ambulance driver in Arizona
Most ambulance drivers in Arizona are EMTs.
EMTs are required to have current Arizona certification.
Arizona does not require ambulance drivers to complete EVOC training.
However, once hired by most agencies in Arizona, most employers will require them to complete EVOC training before or during orientation.
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