BE A FIREFIGHTER

FOR THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES

Minimum Requirements to Apply

18+

Age Requirement

Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application. (No max age limit)

Education

You must have a high school diploma, G.E.D., or California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) certificate.

Background

You must have a clean record for your application to be considered.

Drivers License

Valid California driver's license.

Pay & Benefits

Firefighter I

$85,315
ANNUALLY

Firefighter II

$89,784 - $118,055
ANNUALLY

Firefighter III

$100,596 - $124,549
ANNUALLY

Advanced Starting Salary

Recruits who meet work experience requirements can receive up to a maximum three-step pay increase.
  • Previous work experience as a firefighter or paramedic, or a college degree. 
  • College degrees can receive the Advance Starting Salary, and can also collect the education bonus.
  • Work Experience CAN encompass Military Experience, however, duties performed must be in firefighting or paramedic-related duties to qualify.

Education Bonus for
New Hires

  • Associate's Degree (AA or AS):
    Recruits can receive a 1% education bonus upon Academy graduation.
  • Bachelor's Degree: (BA or BS)
    Recruits can receive a 3% education bonus upon Academy graduation.
  • Bonuses cannot be combined. The new hire will receive the highest applicable bonus based on their highest qualification.

Healthcare for Firefighters
& Families

Excellent health and dental plans are available for Firefighters and eligible family members/domestic partners.
EXPLORE BENEFITS

Steps to Become A Firefighter

Women Firefighter dragging fire hose to firetruck.
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Minimum Requirements

  • 18 Years of Age
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid California Drivers License
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Online City Application

2025 Application. Open Date pending.

Pass the Fire Fighter Candidate Assessment (FCA) test. Testing available during application period (pending).

EMT & CPAT “Complete or be in process of obtaining EMT license & CPAT certification”

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Interview

The City Personnel Department will contact you for an interview.


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Pre-Background Appointment

Pre-Background Appointment “ All applicants must submit PROOF of CPAT & EMT license”

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Background Investigation 

The Background Investigation will consist of a field investigation and a records check.

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Review of Qualifications

This review may include the evaluation of the candidate’s training, experience, and personal qualifications.

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Medical & Psych Evaluation

A Medical Examination is conducted by a City physician to evaluate the candidate’s medical fitness and a Psychological evaluation will be conducted to evaluate the candidates fitness to perform the Firefighter duties. (vision, hearing, cardiovascular, respiratory, etc.)

Women Firefighter dragging fire hose to firetruck.

Career & Advancement Opportunities

Discover the limitless possibilities that await you after completing a minimum of 4 years of full-time paid fire suppression certified experience in the City of Los Angeles Fire Department. Embrace the challenge, become a leader, and elevate your career with advancement opportunities in the LAFD. 

LAFD candidate taking the FCA entrance exam.
FCA
FIREFIGHTER CANDIDATE ASSESSMENT
LAFD Paramedics in Action – Assisting a Patient with Urgency and Care.
EMT LICENSE