Reignite your passion

The Houston Fire Department is pleased to announce the implementation of a re-employment program.

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HFD Requirements

HFD requirements for Certified and Non-certified firefighter and EMT trainee.

firefighters at training facility

First Friday with a Firefighter

This event offers participants an opportunity to get the details on what it takes to become a Firefighter/ Emergency Medical Technician /Paramedic.

firefighter putting on gear

Apply to HFD today

Start the application process by completing an online application.

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hfd truck in front of houston skyline

Our Mission

To save lives, protect property, and serve our community with courage, commitment and compassion. HFD exists to serve our citizens. Prevention and enforcement, public education, pre-hospital emergency care & transportation, and fire control is part of our mission.

hfd fire truck front

Vision Statement

HFD will be recognized as a premier public service organization, respected and admired by our peers and the community as the most diverse, innovative, and efficient public safety provider in the world.

hfd fire truck front

Interested in being a firefighter?

If you are interested in a career with the Houston Fire Department and would like to be notified of upcoming exams, please complete the form by clicking the button below.

Upcoming Events

2025 - 2026 Projected Academy Dates

*All projected dates are subject to change based on the needs of the Houston Fire Department.
August 25, 2025

  • NON-CERTIFIED
  • CERTIFIED (EMT Only)
  • September 15, 2025

  • CERTIFIED (Fire & EMT)

  • October 27, 2025

  • NON-CERTIFIED
  • CERTIFIED (EMT Only)
  • CERTIFIED (Fire Only)
  • January 6, 2026

  • CERTIFIED (Fire & EMT)

  • March 9, 2026

  • CERTIFIED (Fire & EMT)

  • April 13, 2026

  • NON-CERTIFIED
  • CERTIFIED (EMT Only)
  • May 11, 2025

  • CERTIFIED (Fire & EMT)

  • June 22, 2026

  • NON-CERTIFIED
  • CERTIFIED (EMT Only)
  • CERTIFIED (Fire Only)
  • The next Civil Service Exam (C.S.E.) will be held in June 2026.
    Note: you must apply and clear prescreen to be sent a link for the C.S.E.

    Other Events

    Event Name Event Date
    First Friday with Firefighter July 11, 2025
    First Friday with Firefighter August 1, 2025
    First Friday with Firefighter September 5, 2025
    First Friday with Firefighter October 3, 2025
    First Friday with Firefighter November 7, 2025
    First Friday with Firefighter December 4, 2025

    HFD Academy Disclaimer

    The Houston Fire Department Academy is a paramilitary program that will last approximately 7-9 months (length of time may vary). During this time, cadets will attend fire school and emergency medical technician school (EMT). This program has physical ability training daily and will test physical agility. Cadets will be required to be able to perform physical fitness activities that may include, but are not limited to, running, pushups, sit ups, pull ups, climbing and carrying equipment, some of which may be tested and timed.

    HFD Testing Disclaimer

    To participate in the Firefighter Training hiring process you must complete an official application at www.houstontx.gov and meet the minimum qualifications. Due to the volume of applicants, both the Civil Service Exam (CSE) and the Physical Abilities Testing (PAT) testing dates are by invitation only, and on a first come first serve basis. Failure to apply or meet the minimum qualifications will result in discontinuance of the process. Testing dates and times are subject to change.

    hfd firefighters

    Question about HFD?

    Here are a few answers to frequently asked questions about the department's operations, recruitment, and services.