Public Safety

How to become a Firefighter

From EMT or no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

6–18 months

Typical pay

$48k–$75k

Starting from

EMT or no experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from EMT or no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   3–6 months

   Get EMT certified

   Most departments now require it before you can even apply.

   ◆ NREMT-B

   Course that covers thisNREMT National Registry Emergency Medical Technician ExamUdemy · around $19.99 →
2. 2

   3–6 months

   Pass the CPAT and written exam

   The physical ability test is a genuine filter — train for it months ahead.

3. 3

   6–18 months

   Get through the hiring process

   Written, physical, oral board, background, medical and psych. It takes a year.

4. 4

   3–6 months

   Complete the academy

   Paid, residential, and covers Firefighter I and II certification.

   ◆ Firefighter I / II

5. ✓

   Destination

   Firefighter

   Browse jobs now →

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