how to become a firefighter in texas

Should I Become a Firefighter in Texas?

The job of a firefighter is full of danger. They are usually the first respondents in case a fire breaks out anywhere. 25,670 firefighters were working in the state of Texas in 2019 according to the latest figures published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. If becoming a firefighter is your dream job, then read this article for more details.

Education Required	At least a high school diploma
Training	Fire Academy Training is needed.
Licenses/Certifications	EMT and CRT Certification might be required.
Key Skills/Qualities	Leadership Skills, Ability to improvise, Physical Stamina, etc.
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National	$54,650
Job Outlook (2019-2029)	6%
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Texas	$54,760

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Guide to Become a Firefighter in Texas

To become a firefighter in Texas, you have to complete the following steps:

Step 1: Get High School Education

To become a firefighter in Texas, you will have to complete high school education or get an equivalent GED. These educational credentials will make you eligible to complete a fire suppression training program.

Step 2: Get an EMT Certification

Getting an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification might or might not be mandatory. This requirement varies from city to state and from state to state so, it is advisable that you conduct proper research before applying for the position of a firefighter.

Step 3: Apply for the Job

Once you have completed all the prerequisites, you can apply for the position of a firefighter at the fire department of your choice.

Step 4: Clear the Screening Process

Once your application is accepted, you will have to pass a comprehensive screening process. Every fire station has its own criteria, but generally you will have to pass a written exam, an oral interview, a background check, drug screening, and a medical exam, etc.

Step 5: Get Certification

Once you have passed the screening process, you will have to get the Texas Commission on Fire Protection Basic Fire Suppression Certificate. You will have to pay a certain fee to obtain this certificate.

Step 6: Complete Fire Academy Training

You will also have to pass fire academy training. The duration will depend on the fire department you apply to.

Eligibility Requirements to Become a Firefighter in Texas

Meet the minimum and maximum age requirement
Have a high school diploma or GED
Be certified as EMT-B (or higher) by the State of Texas or enrolled in a qualifying course
Be willing to graduate from a firefighter training academy, or
Be certified/certifiable by The Texas Commission on Fire Protection
Be able to pass a background check
Have no felony convictions and no recent misdemeanors
Have a valid driver's license
Have a clean driving record

These are some of the minimum qualifications for you to meet if you want to work as a firefighter in the state of Texas. In addition to these your city's fire department may have its own requirements such as passing the entrance exam, etc.

However, there is one requirement which is mandatory across all fire departments in the state of Texas and that is getting certified as a firefighter with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP). This is mandatory especially if you want to work as a paid firefighter in Texas.

TCFP Basic Fire Suppression Certification

You can earn this certification by fulfilling the following 6-steps:

Finish a basic fire fighter training program
Exhibit that you can perform basic firefighting skills
Pass the state certification test
Complete your emergency medical responder training
Pass a criminal history background check and get fingerprinted
Apply for the certification

How Long Does It Take to Become a Firefighter in Texas?

To earn TCFP Basic Fire Suppression Certification, it will take you months, if not years. This is in addition to spending time on fulfilling the minimum and specific qualifications to become a firefighter in your city. In short, the time it will take you to become a firefighter in Texas may be as little as a few months to 5 years, going up to 7 years.

How Much Does a Firefighter Make in Texas?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the mean annual wage of firefighters in Texas (as reported in May 2017) was $53,480.

Career Outlook for Firefighters in Texas

According to BLS, in May 2017, the state of Texas was the second biggest employer of firefighters in the US after California. There were 27,900 firefighters in the state in May 2017. The biggest concentration of firefighters was reported in Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land areas and Dallas-Plano-Irving areas.

Summary

In 2017, the state of Texas was the second biggest employer of firefighters in the US. Therefore if you are thinking of becoming a firefighter in Texas then you may find ample employment opportunities in the field; however, you will have to fulfill certain requirements and qualification before you can be considered for a firefighter's position.

Other States

How to Become a Firefighter in Alabama
How to Become a Firefighter in California
How to Become a Firefighter in Florida?
How to Become a Firefighter in Washington