Become a St. Louis Firefighter or EMT

Ensure you meet the requirements to become a firefighter:

1. Have a diploma or high school equivalent
2. Be at least 18 years of age and no more than 33 years of age (Up to 6 additional years for Military Service)

The position of Probationary Fire Private comes up every few years as needed. Check the job listings to see if the position is open.

You may apply online or download an application form and apply via mail or in person.

Begin online

Applicants will be notified via email whether or not they are accepted.

If your application is accepted, you will receive information about the examination process. This is very competitive, with an extremely large number of applicants vying for the positions.

If you are accepted for the position, you will then need to:

1. Pass the examination process which may include a written exam, physical ability test, and oral interview. Only the applicants who have successfully completed the examination process will be placed on an eligibility list and ranked based on their examination scores. The better you do, the higher you will be placed.
   Read more about the testing process.
2. Pass a pre-employment drug screen.
3. Pass a pre-employment physical.
4. Complete the 18 weeks of training in the Fire Academy.
5. Pass the Missouri Division of Fire Safety's Hazardous Materials Awareness & Operations and Firefighter 1 & 2 Practical Skills and Cognitive testing. (IFSAC/ProBoard certified)
6. If you already have an IFSAC/ProBoard Firefighter 1 & 2 that is accepted for reciprocity by the Missouri Division of Fire Safety then you will complete a minimum of 8 weeks of firefighter skills evaluation and STLFD specific training.
7. Obtain licensure as a Missouri State EMT, within one year of employment and maintain licensure throughout your employment with the St. Louis Fire Department. (NOTE: This requires the passing of a National Registry Emergency Medical Technician course and all corresponding testing.)

About Fire Academy

The fire academy is an intensive 18-week program that prepares individuals for a career in firefighting. It includes physical training, classroom learning, and practical skills development, with a focus on teamwork. The academy is challenging but rewarding, providing graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to serve their communities and protect lives and property.

Recruits can expect daily workouts, academic instruction on fire behavior and prevention, hands-on training with firefighting equipment, and emergency medical procedures. Team-building exercises and leadership development activities are also integral parts of the program.

The fire academy is physically and mentally demanding, but the rewards of completing the program are significant. Graduates will be well-prepared for a fulfilling career in firefighting and public service.

Ensure you meet the requirements to become an EMT:

• Education: A high school diploma or General Educational Development (G.E.D.) certificate.
• Licenses: Applicants must possess and maintain all of the following while employed by the City of St. Louis:
  • a valid Missouri driver's license.
  • a Missouri EMT-B License (Emergency Medical Technician – Basic).
    Applicants who possess a EMT-B License from another state must obtain Missouri license reciprocity prior to appointment. Contact the State of Missouri, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, P.O. Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102, or telephone (573) 751-6356 for information.

The position of Emergency Medical Technician comes up every few years as needed. Check the job listings to see if the position is open.

You may apply online or download an application form and apply via mail or in person.

Begin online

Applicants will be notified via email whether or not they are accepted.

If you are accepted for the position, you will undergo a comprehensive 4-week training academy to ensure you are well-prepared for the responsibilities ahead. During this time, you will:

1. Complete City administrative classes, focusing on local regulations and protocols.
2. Be introduced to the department's medical protocols, which you will follow when providing care.
3. Complete a certified emergency vehicle operators course to ensure safe and efficient transportation of patients.

Candidates will be required to pass an oral swab Drug Screen Test as part of the Medical examination. Incumbents are subject to random Drug Screen and Alcohol Tests as a condition of their employment.

Upon completing the academy, you will join a dedicated team of first responders.

About Fire Academy

The fire academy is an intensive 18-week program that prepares individuals for a career in firefighting. It includes physical training, classroom learning, and practical skills development, with a focus on teamwork. The academy is challenging but rewarding, providing graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to serve their communities and protect lives and property.

Recruits can expect daily workouts, academic instruction on fire behavior and prevention, hands-on training with firefighting equipment, and emergency medical procedures. Team-building exercises and leadership development activities are also integral parts of the program.

The fire academy is physically and mentally demanding, but the rewards of completing the program are significant. Graduates will be well-prepared for a fulfilling career in firefighting and public service.