Firefighters in Texas not only fight fire, but also keep the public and their property safe. Everyday, Texas firefighters, both men and women risk their lives to keep others safe. Texas requires that paid firefighters meed qualifications before getting hired on a fire department.  The Texas volunteers are not required to meet these standards. However, they can take the certifications and it would be in their best interest to do so since the classes teach them how to save their lives along with their partners lives. The volunteer can also receive free training through their local organization or fire department.

There are 5 simple steps to become a firefighter in the state of Texas. We have listed them below in order to help you become a firefighter.

1. Train. Get used to training as your career progresses. You are going to train, train and train more. This is a good thing but can seem quite boring at times but always pay attention.  You can never get enough. You will obtain basic structure fire suppression and firefighting techniques. You will be required to take classes from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) which will consist of 468 hours of your basic firefighting skills. If you have prior military experience as a firefighter, some of your training may transfer over. You will have to contact the TCFP for more information. You will also have to take the NFPA Firefighter I & II courses along with HazMat Awareness and Operations.
2. Take the exam by the TCFP. You MUST take this exam to be-come a paid firefighter in the state of Texas.  You can contact them by calling (512) 936-3838. Let them know that you are ready to take the exam and they will send you a study guide to help you get ready for your exam. This packet will also include dates and locations of an exam near you.

3. All firefighters in Texas must have a basic emergency medical training that is also called an Emergency Care Attendant or a (ECA). Many of the Texas fire academies offer this course as well so you do not need to worry about going somewhere else to get it. You can also obtain this through local community colleges and other ways.  To find a list of providers for the ECA, you can call  the Department of State Health Service at (512) 834-6700.

4. The fourth step to becoming a firefighter in Texas is to apply for your certification. When you are finished completing these steps above, you are then able to apply for certification. Contact the TCFP at the number in step #1. This will cost around $20 to obtain the application.

5. Pass the background check. After you submit your application, you will undergo a background check to make sure you meet the requirements set forth by the State of Texas. If you pass the background check, you will be granted certification.
After these 5 simple steps, you can become a Texas Firefighter and enjoy a great and rewarding career!

**If you are a Texas Firefighter and the process is a little different from the above, please let us know so we can change our content to provide better instructions for those inspiring to become a Texas Firefighter! Thank you!