How to Become a Texas Firefighter

Texas firefighters are required to pass a background check before certification.

Firefighters in Texas are required to pass the certification requirements set by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. Applicants are required to complete a certified basic training course, pass a written test and demonstrate the physical abilities needed for the job. Applicants must also receive certification in emergency medical procedures.

Things You'll Need

• Approved firefighter training course
• Certification exam
• Emergency medical training
• Background check
• Application form TCFP-002
• $35 application fee

Instructions

Texas Firefighter Certification

1. Complete a basic training course that conforms at least to the minimum standards established by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. All Texas firefighters are required to complete a basic fire suppression training program certified by the Fire Service Accreditation Congress or the State Firemen's and Marshal's Association of Texas. Certification from these two agencies is more commonly held by applicants transferring to a Texas fire department from another state or those who completed fire training in the military. Certificate holders from these programs are eligible for certification after passing a skills proficiency evaluation. Most commonly, firefighters complete a training program in a training academy sponsored by city fire departments throughout the state.

2. Pass the fire suppression exam (written and task-oriented) given by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. All examinees must score at least 70 on the written portion and must also pass a skills test based on the physical requirements of firefighting such as climbing, lifting and hauling equipment.

3. Obtain certification in emergency medical training. As of January 2011, the Texas Commission on Fire Protection recognizes emergency medical certification from the following agencies: the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, the American Red Cross Emergency Response course, the American Safety and Health Institute, and the Department of State Health Services Emergency Medical Service Personnel. Certification for training outside of these agencies depends on approval by the Commission. However, if you attend a basic fire academy, emergency medical training is included in the curriculum and additional training is not required.

4. Apply for certification as a Texas firefighter. According to the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, you are eligible for certification only upon completing a basic course, receiving emergency medical training and passing the exam. The state requires you to apply for certification using application form TCFP-002, which requires a nonrefundable fee of $35 as of January 2011.

References

• Texas Commission on Fire Protection: Mission and Goals
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection: Basic Certification Requirements
• Texas Commission on Fire Protections: Standards manual for Fire Protection Personnel

Resources

• Texas Commission of Fire Protection: Frequently Asked Questions
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection: Certified Training Facilities
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection: Application for Certification
• Chapter 419 of the Texas Government Code: Texas Commission on Fire Protection
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection: Fire Investigation Certification Standards
• Texas Commission on Fire Protection: Fire Service Instructors Certification Standards