Becoming a firefighter has always carried a certain kind of patriotic pride – a calling rooted in courage, service and community. But take that noble pursuit and plant it deep in the heart of Texas, and you get something even more iconic. In a state known for doing everything bigger, the path to the fire service is no exception. From rigorous training to statewide certifications, becoming a firefighter in Texas is a journey that blends tradition, discipline and Lone Star grit.
The Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) outlines the steps to becoming a firefighter in Texas. Here’s how to become certified in Basic Structure Fire Suppression and start your journey to becoming a Texas firefighter.
Complete a TCFP-approved Structure Fire Suppression training program
You must complete a Fire Suppression training program as outlined in Chapter 1 of the commission’s Certification Curriculum Manual. The curriculum covers NFPA qualifications for NFPA 470: Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Standard for Responders and NFPA 1010: Professional Qualifications for Firefighters. (Both standards are part of new NFPA standards consolidation programs.) This will grant you International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) Seals.
There are several location options to complete your training:
- A Texas fire department’s fire academy
- A course at a state college or private training provider
- A Texas volunteer fire department that participates in a certification program
View certified training facilities as well as upcoming training.
Demonstrate that you can perform basic firefighting skills
The TCFP-approved Structure Fire Suppression program teaches several dozen skills from the commission’s Basic Fire Suppression Curriculum – and how to perform them safely. Hands-on skills include actions like:
- Rolling a hose
- Operating a fire extinguisher
- Raising a ladder
- Donning and doffing SCBA
- Choosing the right tool to gain entry to a building
Note: For the state performance evaluation, the skills are randomly selected, and you won’t know ahead of time which of the skills you’ll have to perform.
Qualify for and pass all four sections of the structure exam
The basic fire suppression certification test is the written part of the state examination process. A passing score is 70% or higher on each section.
Learn more about TCFP Academy Examination Procedures and where to take the TCFP exams.
If you do not pass the exam, you can take it again.
Note: You may be exempt from the exam requirement if you have never been certified and hold an IFSAC seal or TEEX Proboard certificate. Learn more about exemptions.
Document emergency medical training
Since most fire departments run upwards of 70% or more EMS-related responses, it only makes sense for them to require this as a prerequisite.
The following medical training or certification (or equivalent) must be submitted prior to being eligible for basic certification:
- Emergency Medical Responder
- Emergency Care Attendant
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Paramedic
Pro tip: Before you can apply to paramedic school, you likely must first successfully pass EMT training. Work experience as an EMT on a 911 ambulance is also extremely beneficial and is often required for many paramedic programs. If you have decided on this career path, get enrolled in an EMT class and consider paramedic school only if you have a genuine interest in EMS and want to work as a paramedic.
Learn more about how to submit proof of this emergency medical training.
Complete a background check
The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior, which is why public safety agencies require background checks. Having a track record of problems (vehicle accidents, traffic tickets, arrests, domestic violence, anger management issues, etc.) will only make it harder for you to stand out in a positive way when compared with your competition.
To become a firefighter in Texas, you must pass a fingerprint-based background check. Make an appointment for a background check at an IdentoGo office following the IdentoGo FAST-Pass instructions. This must be completed for TCFP, even if you have already done this for another agency.
The results of your criminal history background check will be available to the TCFP electronical within three to five days after your appointment. Once the commission reviews, a completion record is added to your Records in FIDO – Fire Fighters: Individuals and Departments Online.
Apply for certification
In order to apply to become a firefighter in Texas, you will first need to create a FIDO account. FIDO is a web portal that allows you to access your exam grades, apply for and pay for certification. Find detailed instructions on how to apply to become a firefighter.
Boost your hiring potential
In addition to the required steps above, there are several actions you can take to increase your odds of getting hired.
- Volunteer your time: It doesn’t matter if it is fire- or non-fire-related volunteer experience, departments are looking for individuals with the desire and ability to provide community service and nothing proves this more than doing volunteer community service work. There are many great opportunities out there. The American Red Cross is always looking for volunteers and CPR instructors. Burn camps are also a great place to volunteer and start networking with fire service professionals, but also consider homeless shelters, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brother Big Sister and other great opportunities where you can make an impact on your community. This is what the fire service is all about and these are the kinds of people we are looking to join our team and represent our departments and profession.
- Take fire technology classes: While not always a requirement to apply for a fire job, taking extra classes shows some dedication, commitment and initiative toward your career of choice.
- Start taking firefighter tests: What better way to understand all of the phases of the firefighter hiring process than taking firefighter tests? Each test better prepares you for the next. Who cares if you fail a portion of the test; what matters is that you have exposed yourself to the process and more importantly, have a better idea of what to expect in the future, since most fire departments have very similar hiring process components.
- Stop by fire stations: Take the time to visit your local fire stations, especially those that are a part of the fire department to which you are applying. Talking to firefighters is a great way to find out more about the career and specific department as well, as any programs they may have such as cadet positions, reserve firefighter or other opportunities. Your local firefighters are a great resource for you to learn from and start networking with.
- Learn as much as you can about the fire service: It is common for fire departments to ask you such questions as, “Where is the fire service going to be in five years?” or “What are the three biggest issues facing the fire service today?” Having your thumb on the pulse of the fire service, will help you to stand out from your competition and prepare you for the career.
Look for jobs!
Ready to get started? The Texas Commission on Fire Protection lists available jobs here. Find more firefighter jobs on FireRescue1.com.
It is going to be up to you to educate yourself and seek out the opportunities that are available. You must be aggressively proactive in your quest for knowledge and information.
