Basic Recruit Academy

If you are ready for a challenging and rewarding career helping others in need, firefighting may be for you.
 
The Basic Fire Recruit Academy meets the minimum educational requirements to be a certified combat firefighter in the State of Florida. You will gain the knowledge and skills needed for a successful fire science career. Throughout the program, you will be challenged to function as a member of a team with team-building exercises and you'll test your skills in real-world scenarios. 
 
Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to take the state written and practical examination administered by the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training. 
 
This is a selective admission program. Applicants must complete and pass a multi-step application process to be accepted. 
 
Please note, each academy has a preliminary application time frame. All dates are subject to change and classes may fill prior to the end of the Preliminary Application Deadline.  
NEW 2026 DATES AND APPLICATION WILL BE AVAILABLE AROUND JULY 1, 2025
The Fire Academy program consists of 492 hours of training with hours being incorporated into either of the two Academy schedule options.
 
Daytime Academy:
Approximately 16 Weeks in Length
Generally Meets Monday-Friday (Daytime Hours)
7:30am-4:30pm
 
Evening Academy:
Approximately 26-30 Weeks in Length
Generally Meets Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
From 6:00pm-10:00pm
And Saturday
From 7:30am-4:30pm
Course Number Title Clock Hours
FFP0030 Firefighting Academy I 191
FFP0031 Firefighting Academy II 301
     
  Total Clock Hours 492
 
Class size is limited and may fill prior to the application deadline.
 
Students must also meet the following requirements:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must possess good moral character
  • Must have a high school diploma or its equivalent
  • Must not have been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor involving perjury or false statements as an adult, notwithstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication
  • Must pass a medical examination
  • Must have the ability to participate in vigorous physical activities without restrictions
  • Must have a valid Florida driver license or be capable of obtaining one
  • Must not use tobacco or tobacco products
  • Must pass the physical agility entrance test
 
 
The Basic Recruit Fire Academy is a multi-step admission process.
 
Step 1: Preliminary Application (See Important Documents Below)
 
Please note, each academy has a preliminary application time frame. All dates are subject to change and classes may fill prior to the end of the Preliminary Application Deadline.
 
To start the application process, the applicant must submit the following items together:
  • Completed preliminary application
  • All requested documentation
  • Copy of your EMT/Paramedic certification
  • Fingerprint screening completed. Please pay for the fingerprints using the Fire Fingerprint Link. Once you have paid, please call 772-462-7961 to schedule your appointment. Walk-ins will not be accepted. 
 
Step 2: Attend Mandatory Orientation
 
Once you have successfully turned in ALL components of the Preliminary Application, your selection process will begin. 
 
Orientation dates are printed within the Preliminary Application under the Class Schedules.
 
Step 3: Medical Physical and Hearing Test
 
Medical physical and hearing test forms will be handed out at orientation.
 
Both tests are mandatory and will be scheduled for you. Tests will not be rescheduled for any reason if the applicant misses their appointment.
 
 
Step 4: Physical Agility Test (PAT) for Fire Academy 
 
You must pass the PAT for the Fire Academy within the acceptable completion time.
 
Each academy class will have an assigned Practice Physical Agility Test and Physical Agility Test. The costs for these tests are below.
 
Test Day Procedures
  • Please be sure to arrive 15 minutes early for your assigned time
  • Drivers license and paid receipt are required for admittance
  • No personal items will be allowed in the testing area, including newspapers, backpacks, books, hats, purses, electronic equipment, cell phones, beverages, etc.
 
What to Bring/Wear
  • T-Shirt (Non-Offensive Writing)
  • Long Pants
  • Running Shoes
  • Gloves (Baseball or Workout with Fingers Covered)
  • Water
  • Please remove all jewelry (earrings, watches, necklaces, etc.). Only a wedding band is allowed
  • Must be clean-shaven (no facial hair)
 
Practice Physical Agility Test
$35.00
 
Physical Agility Test
$60.00
 
The Fire Academy allows you to start a successful career in the Fire Service.
 
A few of the possible career options are:
 
Career Opportunity General Salary Range*
Municipal Firefighter $27,241-$68,001
*Salary ranges represent typical starting salaries to highly experienced workers. These ranges can differ depending on city, county, and state.
 
To learn more about pay ranges, growth, and local job posting,
please visit:
 
After graduation, obtaining a certification and/or joining an association can be one of the most important steps that you can make in career development. These steps can provide everything from career advancement to industry recognition.
 
 
 
A NEW 2026 APPLICATION WITH DUE DATES WILL BE AVAILABLE AROUND JULY 1, 2025
 
 
 
 
 
Mike Kemp
Director
772-462-7968