The public safety and private sector conducts their own hiring process, and may establish their own higher employment standards. Applicants should directly contact the agency or business in which they are interested. A nine-month trial service period is required before basic certification. Accreditation is a voluntary program for professional development of fire service personnel. Certificates are issued to fire fighters, fire prevention officers, fire investigators, public education officers, fire service instructors, fire apparatus drivers and operators, hazardous materials responders, fire officers and managers.
Certification is based on completion of performance objectives and job experience.
Some certificates require skills testing. College credits must be earned at a recognized college or university. The transcripts must come directly from the school in a sealed envelope, signed by the registrar, with the official seal showing. Individuals cannot certify their own transcript. Also, transcript copies issued to the student will not be considered.