2 answers
Brayden
Student
Oak Harbor, Ohio
10
Questions
Asked
460 views
Can I become a FireFighter straight out of high school?
Does every job in the field require a college education?
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2 answers
Owen Moynihan
Okta
8
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Owen’s Answer
Yes, you can become a firefighter right after high school. You just need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and a clean background.
Nathnail Hawaz
Account Executive (Sales)
3
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Nathnail’s Answer
Hey Brayden,
That’s a great question and the good news is yes, you can become a firefighter straight out of high school! The process depends a bit on where you live but here’s a general overview of what it looks like:
1. Graduate from high school (or earn your GED)
A high school diploma is the minimum requirement for most fire departments. If you can, take classes that help with physical fitness or science, like biology or chemistry, since they’re useful in this field.
2. Meet the basic requirements
Most fire departments require that you:
At least 18 years old
Have a valid driver’s license
Can pass a background check and drug screening
Are in good physical condition (you’ll take a fitness test)
3. Apply to a fire academy or local fire department
You can apply directly to local fire departments. If accepted, they’ll usually send you to a fire academy for training. Some community colleges also offer Fire Science programs, which include academy-style training and can help you stand out.
4. Earn your certifications
You’ll need certifications like Firefighter I and II (requirements vary by state). Many departments also ask for EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification, which is a great skill to have and sometimes required.
5. Keep growing in your career
After you start, you can continue training to become a fire engineer, captain, or investigator. There are lots of ways to advance in the field.
Wishing you all the best as you take the first steps toward this exciting and meaningful career!
Cheers,
NH
That’s a great question and the good news is yes, you can become a firefighter straight out of high school! The process depends a bit on where you live but here’s a general overview of what it looks like:
1. Graduate from high school (or earn your GED)
A high school diploma is the minimum requirement for most fire departments. If you can, take classes that help with physical fitness or science, like biology or chemistry, since they’re useful in this field.
2. Meet the basic requirements
Most fire departments require that you:
At least 18 years old
Have a valid driver’s license
Can pass a background check and drug screening
Are in good physical condition (you’ll take a fitness test)
3. Apply to a fire academy or local fire department
You can apply directly to local fire departments. If accepted, they’ll usually send you to a fire academy for training. Some community colleges also offer Fire Science programs, which include academy-style training and can help you stand out.
4. Earn your certifications
You’ll need certifications like Firefighter I and II (requirements vary by state). Many departments also ask for EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) certification, which is a great skill to have and sometimes required.
5. Keep growing in your career
After you start, you can continue training to become a fire engineer, captain, or investigator. There are lots of ways to advance in the field.
Wishing you all the best as you take the first steps toward this exciting and meaningful career!
Cheers,
NH