Qualifications

AGE:

At least 18 years of age at the time of application.

EDUCATION:

Graduation from a U.S. high school or equivalent, G.E.D. or equivalent from a U.S. institution, or a California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) certificate is required.

FIREFIGHTER CANDIDATE ASSESSMENT (FCA):

To meet the FCA requirement, you must register and take the FCA during the testing period. FCA registration will start on February 11, 2020 through June 15, 2020. Candidates must also submit a City application during the application filing period. Candidates may submit the application prior to registering for the FCA. Testing Appointments are limited and on a first come, first served basis.

CITIZENSHIP:

U.S. Citizenship is not required to apply. However, candidates must have the the proper status (green card, work visa, etc.) to work legally in the United States of America.

LICENSE:

A valid California Driver's License is required at the time of appointment. Once hired, Firefighters are required to obtain and maintain a California Class "B" or Firefighter's driver's license, in accordance with Fire Department Procedures, as a condition of employment.

CPAT:

Candidates must provide proof of a current passing score on the CPAT during the Field Investigation. Proof must also be provided at the time of certification for hiring consideration. A CPAT score is valid for one year. Information regarding the CPAT can be found at this link.

EMT:

A valid EMT certificate is required prior to hire. Candidates must provide proof of an EMT certification by the time all test parts have been successfully completed to be certified or deemed eligible for hiring consideration. Local candidates are required to submit a current, valid California State EMT license. Applicants from out of state must submit a current National Registry EMT / or higher certification AND a current and valid EMT / or higher license from their state. Click here to see a list of EMT/Paramedic programs in Southern California.

PHYSICAL:

Firefighting and medical rescue work is physically demanding. Candidates must be in excellent health and have no conditions that would restrict their ability to safely do fire suppression and rescue work. Weight (body fat content) must be proportionate to height for men and women. The Fire Academy, as well as the job of firefighting, is physically demanding. Therefore, it is in the best interest of each candidate to prepare well in advance to reach his or her maximum fitness level.

VISION:

Uncorrected distance visual acuity of at least 20/100 in the poorer eye and 20/40 in the better eye, correctable to at least 20/40 in one eye and 20/20 in the other eye is required. Regarding refractive surgery, most persons who have had these procedures will be passed. However, some may be deferred for several months or disqualified based on an individualized assessment of the surgical outcome. Regarding color vision, candidates must be able to accurately and quickly name colors and be free of other visual impairments that would restrict their ability to perform Firefighter duties.

TOBACCO:

Firefighters are required to refrain from all use of tobacco throughout their employment with the Los Angeles Fire Department.