Ambulance Drivers
Overview
Ambulance drivers transport patients safely to hospitals and medical facilities while supporting emergency medical staff during critical calls. They navigate traffic quickly but safely, maintain communication with dispatchers, and ensure that the ambulance and its equipment are clean, stocked, and ready for use. Although they don’t usually provide medical treatment, they assist EMTs and paramedics in loading and unloading patients and may help move stretchers or operate life-support equipment under supervision. The role requires a calm mindset, excellent driving skills, and specialized emergency vehicle training.
Did you know?
The role requires significant physical strength for patient lifting and emotional resilience to handle medical emergencies and potentially traumatic situations.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$33,924.21 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Time Management
Key Responsibilities
- Earn and maintain appropriate certifications.
- Perform minor maintenance on emergency medical services vehicles, such as ambulances.
- Drive ambulances or assist ambulance drivers in transporting sick, injured, or convalescent persons.
- Place patients on stretchers, and load stretchers into ambulances, usually with assistance from other attendants.
- Restrain or shackle violent patients.
- Administer first aid, such as bandaging, splinting, or administering oxygen.
- Clean and wash rigs, ambulances, or equipment.
- Replace supplies and disposable items on ambulances.
- Report facts concerning accidents or emergencies to hospital personnel or law enforcement officials.
- Accompany and assist emergency medical technicians on calls.
- Remove and replace soiled linens or equipment to maintain sanitary conditions.
Career Considerations
Physical and Emotional Demands
The role requires significant physical strength for patient lifting and emotional resilience to handle medical emergencies and potentially traumatic situations.
Licensing Requirements
Most states require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) along with specific health certifications and background checks to operate ambulances legally.
Limited Advancement Without Additional Certification
Career growth opportunities are restricted without pursuing Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification or other advanced medical training.