To work as an ambulance driver, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a driver's license; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

In some states, you must be certified as an emergency medical technician (EMT) to drive an ambulance. There are several levels of EMT certification:

• First Responders - About 40 hours of training
• EMT-Basic - 110 hours of training
• EMT-Intermediate - 200 to 400 hours of training
• Paramedics - 1,000 or more hours of training

The level of training required varies by state and ambulance company.

Work experience

Experience as a delivery or taxi driver is good background for this occupation. These jobs can provide you with a good knowledge of the area streets.

On-the-job training

Drivers usually learn their skills through on-the-job training. Depending on the duties, training can take up to a year. Training may include completing an emergency vehicle operator's course.