Skip to Content    Skip to Footer
Fire training student holding a hose in front of training center

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn additional information as you apply for the Fire Fighter I/II Career and Technical Certificate program through these common questions.

Where is the Fire Training Academy located and when is the next class?

The Fire Academy is located on Eastern Florida State College's Palm Bay Campus, 250 Community College Parkway. Classes are usually scheduled to begin in conjunction with the start of the College terms. At least two classes are scheduled each year (Spring Term in January & Fall Term in August).

What are Minimum Standards for Firefighters?

This is the education and training needed to become a firefighter in the State of Florida as defined by State Statute. The Bureau of Fire Standards and Training is the agency responsible to ensure its compliance, through testing.

Why does EFSC offer Minimum Standards in two modules (Firefighter I & II)?

The "Minimum Standards" requirement is divided into two modules to serve the needs of students who want to become a professional firefighter versus those who want to serve as volunteers and are looking for some formal training.

Also, by offering two modules, students who already received their FF I certification from the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training can continue in FF II without going through FF I again.

Do you need to be an EMT or Paramedic to become a firefighter?

The state of Florida does not require firefighters to be an EMT or Paramedic, however most Fire Departments require their personnel to have formal medical training.

At this time the EFSC Fire Training Academy does not require EMT as part of the entrance requirements, however preference points are given to students with formal training. EFSC offers EMT and Paramedic training.

Does the Fire Academy require any prerequisite courses?
The Fire Training Academy requires First Responder certification if you have not already completed EMT or Paramedic Training.
What if I received my Firefighter training at another location?
If you received FF I training at another facility and possess a current FF I certificate from the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards and Training, you are eligible to apply for the FF II module of the EFSC Minimum Standards course.
How long does the academy last?
Minimum Standards is 492 hours long divided into two modules, Firefighter 1 is 191 clock hours and Firefighter 2 is 301 clock hours.
Will I be a certified firefighter upon graduation from the Fire Training Academy?
You must successfully pass the State of Florida Bureau of Fire Standards & Training written and practical exam to become certified.
What if I have been arrested?

The Bureau of Fire Standards & Training determines your criminal record through fingerprint identification.

If you have questions about whether past criminal activity is an impact, you may contact the Fire Science Program Manager or the Bureau of Fire Standards & Training at 352-369-2800 for further consultation.

Why do I need a medical exam before class starts?

The Bureau of Fire Standards and Training requires an up-to-date medical exam documented on the state-approved medical form.

EFSC requires that you complete this prior to taking the physical agility test so that any medical abnormalities which may be detrimental to your health are identified prior to your participation. The State Medical Form will be provided at the Group Intake Meeting.

Why do I have to take a "Physical Agility Test" to enter the academy?

Many tasks performed by firefighters involve physical demands. The EFSC physical agility test is designed to ensure that you are capable of performing at the minimum level required to participate in the various training exercises.

Applicants will be scheduled to take the physical agility test after receiving a conditional acceptance offer.