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.

DRIVERS LICENSE

Valid California driver's license.

BACKGROUND

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

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

Minimum Requirements

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

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”

Interview

The City Personnel Department will contact you for an interview.

Pre-Background Appointment

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

Background Investigation 

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

Review of Qualifications

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

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.)

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. 

FCA
FIREFIGHTER CANDIDATE ASSESSMENT
EMT LICENSE