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 education or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is required.

Is there an age limit?

The Raleigh Fire Department requires that you may apply if you turn 19 years old by the beginning of the Academy. There is no upper age limit.

How long is the recruit academy?

The traditional Fire Academy is 32 weeks. Recruits are paid, full time employees who are eligible for healthcare and benefits during the Academy.

Do you get paid while in training?

Yes. All training is provided during the Fire Recruit Academy. Applicants who are accepted to the Fire Recruit 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 Fire Recruit Academy.

What is the Traditional Academy?

The Traditional Academy is designed to prepare the individual with little to no experience in the fire service. It is approximately 32 weeks long and those that completed the academy will graduate with the Certifications of NC FF I and II, NC HazMat Level 1, and NC EMT at a minimum.

Join the Department

Raleigh Fire