How to Become a Los Angeles Firefighter

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has a long standing for an exceptionally high standard for training and performance. The Los Angeles Fire Department is responsible for protecting approximately 4 million people who not only live in America's second largest City, but also work and play. Joining the ranks of LAFD is no easy task and should not be taken lightly. Below are the basic steps to help you join the LAFD's 3,562 uniformed personnel. The LAFD is an action packed department to work for. Last year the department responded to 713,762 calls for help.

Things you need:

• Minimum age of 18 years at the time of application.
• Minimum A U.S. high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent, or a California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) certificate.
• A valid California Driver's License.

Steps:

1. Sign up for the e-mail notification system the Los Angeles Fire Department has set up should the current examination application process open for filling. The link below is an important first step! https://personline.lacity.org/notecard/index.cfm
   
2. Find out when the LAFD will be offering an Orientation Seminar. The seminars are usually offered the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Saturday of the month from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m and from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. You need an appointment to attend, so contact the Recruitment section at (213) 485-8032.
   
3. All candidates must complete a Preliminary Background Application as part of the application process at the time of filing.
   
4. To become a Los Angeles Firefighter you need to successfully complete the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). To state “successfully complete” is an understatement! You need to score in the top 10 of all testers! The LAFD offers CPAT practice sessions, so take full advantage of that! Just remember, a Firefighter is one of the most physically demanding jobs in the United States. Click here for a video of the CPAT course.
   
5. Score highly in a written multiple-choice test. The test contains math and reading comprehension.
   
6. An interview is required. Only the candidates with the highest score will continue in the selection process.
   
7. Complete background investigation will be conducted.
   
8. Initial review of qualifications by a LAFD panel.
   
9. A field investigation is conducted to evaluate the candidate.
   
10. Final panel review which includes a possible conditional job offer.
    
11. Pass a Psychological Evaluation.
    
12. Pass a medical exam and you must be a nonsmoker throughout your career with the Los Angeles City Fire Department.