You must meet the minimum requirements to become a Dallas Fire Department firefighter. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma, or equivalent, and hold a valid driver’s license. The next step is to complete the fire academy training program. The 8-week academy covers topics like fire suppression, emergency medicine care, and hazardous material awareness. After completing the academy successfully, you will be assigned to an emergency department where you will spend a year probationary. Your superiors will closely evaluate you during this period to make sure you meet the requirements of the Dallas Fire Department. After you have completed your probationary period successfully, you can be promoted to the rank of firefighter. You will need to mentor and lead new recruits.