Firefighter/Paramedic Application Process

The DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department recruits qualified National Registry-Certified Paramedics to cross-train and serve as dual-role Paramedic/Firefighters.

Successful applicants will be required to maintain Paramedic certification for the duration of their employment with DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department.

All applicants to become a Paramedic/Firefighter must be National Registry-Certified Paramedics, take the Paramedic/Firefighter Entry-Level Examination, pass a physical abilities test, and pass psychological and medical examinations before being eligible to join a Firefighter Recruit Class at the DC Fire and EMS Department Training Academy.

Paramedic/Firefighter Entry-Level Examinations are administered by DC Fire and EMS Human Resources Division. Examinations dates are scheduled based on the number of qualified applicants.

The formal job announcement and online application for Paramedic/Firefighter positions are available on the DC Department of Human Resources website under "employment opportunities".

Firefighter/Emergency Medical Technician Entry-Level Examination

Qualified applicants will receive additional information regarding the exam in advance by the DC Fire and EMS Human Resources Division. Notification will include appointed test date, time, and location. 

On exam day, qualified applicants:

• Must present a valid form of ID, such as a current driver’s license.
• Must NOT bring calculators or any electronic spelling or grammar aides to the testing facility. These items are not permitted.
• Must turn in all materials at the end of the testing period. No testing materials may be removed from the testing facility.
• For more information, contact DC Fire and EMS Human Resources Division, at (202) 673-7580.