Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 12,080 ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians, and they earn a median of $34,330/year. The range runs from $25K to $47K. Oklahoma pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians start around $25K. The gap between that and the median ($34K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $47K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $43K | 120 |
| Washington | $41K | 60 |
| Oregon | $40K | 60 |
| Massachusetts | $39K | N/A |
| New Jersey | $39K | 170 |
| Florida | $38K | 270 |
| Maryland | $37K | 350 |
| California | $37K | 850 |
| Wisconsin | $37K | 290 |
| Minnesota | $36K | 90 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians make?▼
The median ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians salary in the United States is $34,330 per year ($17/hour). Entry-level positions start around $25,460, while experienced professionals earn up to $46,630.
What education do you need to become a ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians.
What are the highest paying states for ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians?▼
The highest paying states for ambulance drivers and attendants, except emergency medical technicians are Oklahoma ($43,490), Washington ($40,560), Oregon ($39,520), Massachusetts ($39,440), New Jersey ($39,200). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.