Fire Academy FAQ

Is experience or prior training in firefighting required?

No. The Raleigh Fire Department is looking for people who are highly motivated, in excellent physical condition, and who possess adequate reading comprehension skills. While knowledge or experience of the fire service will be helpful once the academy begins, it is not requirement for employment. The Raleigh Fire Department provides all of its new recruits with the necessary training to ensure they have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their jobs in a safe and efficient manner.

What is the minimum education requirement?

A high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is required.

Is there an age limit?

The Raleigh Fire Department requires that applicants are at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit.

How long is The Academy?

The Raleigh Fire Academy is 27 weeks: 12 weeks are spent in EMT training and the remainder focuses on firefighting. Recruits are paid, full time employees who are eligible for healthcare and benefits during the Academy.

Do you get paid while in training?

Yes. Applicants who are accepted to the Raleigh Fire Academy become permanent full time City of Raleigh employees at the start of the Academy. You will be paid the starting salary for a firefighter, along with the benefits package provided by the City of Raleigh. See the Salary and Benefits section for benefits. There is a probationary period that starts with the date of employment and ends six months after graduation from the Academy.

What will I learn in The Academy?

The Raleigh Fire Academy is designed to prepare recruits to respond to medical emergencies, as a certified EMT, and learn the skills needed to be a firefighter in the City of Raleigh. Recruits that complete The Academy will graduate with the Certifications of NC FF I and II, NC HazMat Level 1, and NC EMT at a minimum.

More Information

Join the Department

Raleigh Fire

Contact

If your call is an actual emergency, please call 9-1-1

For the latest information, follow Raleigh Fire on social media: @RaleighNCFire

Herbert Griffin, Fire Chief
Office of the Fire Chief

Fire Stations and Facilities

Department:: Fire

Service Categories:: Fire Recruitment

Related Services:: How to Become a Raleigh Firefighter Fire Academy Working as a Raleigh Firefighter

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