How do I become a firefighter?
Georgia’s firefighter certification process is regulated by the Georgia Fire Standards and Training Council (GFSTC). Candidates interested in pursuing a career as a certified firefighter may enroll in the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC) Basic Firefighter Training Course prior to making application with GFSTC, if they meet the following minimum requirements:
- Are at least 18 years old.
- Have completed a medical release affidavit.
- Have completed CPR certification.
- Have completed NIMS level 100 and 700 training, available on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) website.
The GPSTC Basic Firefighter Training Course is an intense program that will test candidates, both mentally and physically. The program takes eight weeks to complete, and is conducted at the main GPSTC Forsyth. After completing the GPSTC Basic Firefighter Training Program, students will sit for the GFSTC written NPQ Firefighter I test. Successfully passing this test earns the student state certification as a firefighter. Students will also have the option of taking an additional skills test to earn National Firefighter I certification.
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