‘Uncovering your best self’: The application process for future FDNY firefighters

NEW YORK (PIX11) — The deadline to become a firefighter with the FDNY is approaching.

The filing period for the firefighter exam is open for applicants ready to start their careers with the nation’s largest fire department and will close on Aug. 9.

“Take the first step in uncovering your best self,” read the website that recruits members for the FDNY. “You’ll work with the best and bravest company with a history of unmatched heroism and service. We’re a team that works together and is always there for each other every day. We believe in earning respect with action and being an example for our community.”

Here are the steps when applying to become an FDNY member:

Apply

Applying to take the written test is the first step in the application process to become an FDNY member. After submitting an online application, applicants will receive a number to take the written exam for the FDNY.

Written exam

A written exam includes basic reading, listening, problem-solving, and arithmetic. The FDNY helps applicants prepare for the test.

Information can be found here .

Physical exam

The candidate physical ability test, commonly called (CPAT), is a series of “events” that applicants participate in.

The physical test includes a series of tasks that simulate the physical demands of firefighting, such as stair climbing, hose dragging, equipment carrying, ladder raising, forcible entry, search and rescue, and ceiling breaches.

Applicants can undergo two timed practice runs 30 days before the official CPAT.

Things to remember for the CPAT.

• It is a pass-or-fail test.
• It is administered indoors or outdoors.
• You have 10 minutes and 20 seconds to complete the physical assessment.
• According to the FDNY’s website , the applicant must wear a minimum of 50 pounds at all times during the test. This is to mimic the fire gear that firefighters wear during calls.

Complete candidate review

Applicants who pass the written test and physical assessment must also pass a medical, psychological, and background check.

Applicants can join the mentorship program, where experienced firefighters will assist and prepare them for the Fire Academy when they have passed the steps above.

Graduate from the fire academy

If you can complete the applications, you will only need to complete the 18-week classroom and physical fitness program, which includes fire training.

Applicants who complete the steps to becoming an FDNY member begin their career as FDNY firefighters and earn a competitive starting salary of $54,000 (which can increase with holiday and overtime pay).

After just three years of service, firefighters can earn more than $80,000 a year.

Applicants must also meet the eligibility requirements:

• Pass written test and physical ability test.
• Be a U.S. citizen
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Pass medical and psychological tests, as well as a drug screening
• Proof of good character and passing a background investigation
• Be able to understand and speak English.
• Hold a valid New York State driver’s license.
• Be a resident of one of the five boroughs. Residents of Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk, and Westchester counties can apply.

Other eligibility requirements:

• Have a four-year high school diploma or a GED
• Have at least 15 college semester credits earned from an accredited college or university
• Applicants with a military background must have full-time military service with an honorable discharge.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.