How to Become a Firefighter

5 steps to become a firefighter

1. Meet basic requirements

   Typically age 18–21+, a high school diploma, a valid driver’s license and a clean background.

2. Get EMT certified

   Most departments require EMT before or during hiring.

3. Train for the physical test

   Build strength and cardio for the CPAT or similar test.

4. Apply and pass testing

   Written exam, physical test, interviews, background and medical exams.

5. Complete the fire academy

   Earn Firefighter I and II and begin probation; later specialize or promote.

Education and training requirements

Most departments require a high school diploma, EMT certification, passing a written exam and a physical ability test (such as the CPAT), and completing a fire academy for Firefighter I and II certification. Some require paramedic certification or college credit.

Certifications and licenses

• Firefighter I and II: Certifications based on NFPA professional qualification standards, earned through a fire academy.
• EMT or Paramedic: Medical certification required or preferred by most departments.
• Hazmat Awareness and Operations: Training to recognize and respond to hazardous materials incidents.
• CPAT: Candidate Physical Ability Test used by many departments.

Skills to build now

Start with fire suppression, emergency medical care, and scba use, and practice teamwork and courage and composure. Learning the firefighter vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.

Where the career can lead

1. Probationary Firefighter: Complete probation and learn the station.
2. Firefighter or Firefighter/Paramedic: Respond to all emergencies.
3. Driver/Engineer or Lieutenant: Operate apparatus or supervise a crew.
4. Captain, Battalion Chief or Fire Chief: Lead stations and departments.

Get a head start

Our self-paced Firefighter training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.

Common questions about getting started

Do firefighters need EMT certification?

Most departments require or strongly prefer EMT certification because many calls are medical emergencies.

How long does it take to become a firefighter?

Most people need about 6–12 months (EMT + academy) of training. Most departments require a high school diploma, EMT certification, passing a written exam and a physical ability test (such as the CPAT), and completing a fire academy for Firefighter I and II certification. Some require paramedic certification or college credit.

Do you need a degree to be a firefighter?

No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.

What certifications are available for firefighters?

Common credentials include Firefighter I and II, EMT or Paramedic, Hazmat Awareness and Operations, and CPAT. Firefighter certification is managed by state fire training agencies, typically based on NFPA standards. EMT and paramedic licenses come from state EMS offices.

Sources

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 33-2011 (Firefighters).
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
• O*NET OnLine summary for Firefighters (U.S. Department of Labor).
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.