Q: Can I become a firefighter with a felony?

Yes, you can become a firefighter with a felony. A felony will often disqualify you from becoming a firefighter, but the specific regulations vary by department and by state. The factors affecting your hireability as a firefighter with a felony include the number of offenses, the time since it happened, what type of law was broken.

Q: Does the Fire Department drug test?

Yes, the Fire Department drug tests. All candidates are required to undergo a drug test as part of the hiring process. Fire Department employees are also subject to random drug testing, the union, county, and department dictate often random testing occurs. For example, some unions require random drug testing once every two weeks but do not test for the presence of alcohol.

Q: How hard is it to become a fire fighter in California?

It is somewhat hard to become a firefighter in California. It takes time to become a firefighter in California, usually between 2 to 5 years including degrees, EMT training, and fire academy. It is also a very competitive job market, so you will need to work hard to stand out as a candidate.

Q: How hard is it to become a firefighter?

It is fairly hard to become a firefighter. Training to become a firefighter is also difficult. Firefighter training will challenge you mentally, physically, and academically. Not to mention that the firefighting career field is very competitive; there could be hundreds, possibly thousands of applicants, depending on the department and location.

Question 1

At what age can you become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

The age at which you can become a firefighter depends on the jurisdiction and specific fire department, with many setting the age requirement at either 18 or 21 years of age.

These are the two most common age requirements for firefighters in the US, however, some jurisdictions allow applicants to be as young as 17. Jurisdictions that have a minimum age requirement of 17 also require applicants to provide parental consent forms.

Question 2

Can I become a firefighter with a felony?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can become a firefighter with a felony. A felony will often disqualify you from becoming a firefighter, but the specific regulations vary by department and by state. The factors affecting your hireability as a firefighter with a felony include the number of offenses, the time since it happened, what type of law was broken.

Question 3

Can a DACA recipient become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a DACA recipient can become a firefighter; however, candidates must have the proper status (green card, work visa, etc.) to work legally in the United States of America. LAFD does not sponsor work visas, green cards, or DACA. After that, DCAA candidates must then pass both a physical and written exam, as well as complete a training program.

Question 4

Can i become a firefighter with a misdemeanor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can become a firefighter with a misdemeanor, but it depends on the specific misdemeanor and the particular fire department. Some misdemeanors may disqualify you from becoming a firefighter, while others may not. It is best to contact the fire department you are interested in to find out their specific requirements.

Question 5

Does the Fire Department drug test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Fire Department drug tests. All candidates are required to undergo a drug test as part of the hiring process. Fire Department employees are also subject to random drug testing, the union, county, and department dictate often random testing occurs. For example, some unions require random drug testing once every two weeks but do not test for the presence of alcohol.

Question 6

How hard is it to become a fire fighter in California?

Accepted Answer

It is somewhat hard to become a firefighter in California. It takes time to become a firefighter in California, usually between 2 to 5 years including degrees, EMT training, and fire academy. It is also a very competitive job market, so you will need to work hard to stand out as a candidate.

Question 7

How hard is it to become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

It is fairly hard to become a firefighter. Training to become a firefighter is also difficult. Firefighter training will challenge you mentally, physically, and academically. Not to mention that the firefighting career field is very competitive; there could be hundreds, possibly thousands of applicants, depending on the department and location.

Question 8

How long do firefighters work?

Accepted Answer

Firefighters typically work long shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. Firefighters do not work a typical eight-hour day. While shifts may vary based on jurisdiction, the most common shifts for firefighters are 24 hours followed by 48 hours off or ten to 12-hour shifts for three to four days in a row.

Question 9

How to become a firefighter with no experience

Accepted Answer

Becoming a firefighter with no experience is possible if you have met the minimum requirements prior to applying. While all jurisdictions have their own hiring parameters, most all require that candidates meet three minimum standards.

Question 10

How to get a job as a firefighter

Accepted Answer

To get a job as a firefighter, get an EMT certification, pass the firefighter academy, and volunteer your time. You can help yourself stand out by obtaining a fire science degree.

Most fire departments require their firefighters to have an EMT certification. Fire departments run on approximately 70% of emergency medical runs. Most EMT certifications can be obtained in four to six months. It would be wise to consider taking it a step further and getting a paramedic license as well.

Firefighters must also apply and make it into the fire academy. Typical firefighter academies last 12 to 16 weeks. At the end of the academy, there are extensive written, physical, and medical tests that must be passed. Once this happens, you can begin applying for a position within firehouses, but often you will start out as a floater.

Fire departments want to see someone who is willing to give to the community. Find ways to donate your time for community service. The activities can be fire-related, but do not have to be. This is also a great opportunity to begin networking for your future position. Your volunteer activities are a great representation of who you are and how you will represent a department.

Question 11

Is firefighting a good career?

Accepted Answer

Yes, firefighting is a good career. However, it can only be considered a good career if you go into it for the right reasons.

Firefighters experience high rates of job satisfaction due to the fact that the career is one that helps people and can save peoples' lives. People who like high-pressure scenarios and adrenaline will thrive in a career as a firefighter.

Question 12

What degree do you need to be a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

Firefighters usually only need a high school diploma or GED; however, some possess a bachelor's degree in fire science or fire technology. Becoming a firefighter is no easy task, it requires hard work, dedication, and hours of training.

Question 13

What is the career path for a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

The career path for a firefighter involves jobs as a firefighter, lieutenant, and chief. The firefighter career path is generally very straightforward in terms of its requirements in education, training, professional experience, and advancement in the field. Here is a look at each of these facets of the firefighter career path:

Question 14

What should I study to become a firefighter?

Accepted Answer

To become a firefighter, you should study fire science or a similar field. Firefighters usually only need a high school diploma or GED; however, some possess a bachelor's degree in fire science or fire technology. Becoming a firefighter is no easy task, it requires hard work, dedication, and hours of training.

Skills	Percentages
CPR	6.83%
Public Safety	6.51%
Non-Emergency Calls	6.30%
Fire Prevention	5.19%
Fire Suppression	4.42%

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