If you’re wondering how to become a firefighter in Kansas, you’re not alone.
If you’re aiming for a career in the fire service, Kansas offers a wide range of opportunities—from small-town volunteer departments to full-time positions in metro areas like Wichita, Overland Park, and Kansas City.
Whether you’re just getting started or targeting a major municipal department, this guide breaks down exactly how to become a firefighter in Kansas.
General Steps to Become a Firefighter in Kansas
Each department may vary slightly, but most require that candidates meet the following baseline qualifications:
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Kansas driver’s license
- U.S. citizenship or legal right to work
- Clean criminal background (no felonies)
- Pass a background check, drug test, and medical exam
- Meet physical fitness requirements (often CPAT)
Preferred qualifications often include:
- Kansas EMT certification
- IFSAC or ProBoard Firefighter I and II
Why the Firefighter Exam is So Important
The firefighter hiring process is highly competitive—often with hundreds of applicants for a few positions. That’s why how well you perform on the firefighter exam matters immensely. Most departments base their hiring decisions on your exam scores, which typically include:
Written Exam
This measures your cognitive ability—reading comprehension, math, mechanical reasoning, spatial orientation, situational judgment, and memory. A high score helps you rank higher on the eligibility list.
Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
This test proves you have the stamina, strength, and coordination to handle the physical demands of firefighting. It’s pass/fail, but being well-prepared shows you’re serious and helps prevent injury.
Oral Interview
This is your chance to shine as a future team member. Fire departments want to see strong communication, integrity, stress management, and a passion for service. The interview often determines who moves forward or gets hired.
Bottom line: Acing all three phases gives you the best chance of making it through the hiring process. Use resources like Mastering the Firefighter Exam and Firefighter-Test.com to give yourself a competitive edge.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Firefighter in Kansas
1. Graduate High School or Earn a GED
This is the basic educational requirement. Courses in biology, health science, or public safety can give you an early advantage.
2. Get EMT Certified
Many departments require EMT certification and may prefer paramedic credentials. Look for programs at:
- Johnson County Community College
- Kansas City Kansas Community College
- Butler Community College
3. Pass the CPAT
The Candidate Physical Ability Test is standard in Kansas. It simulates real firefighting tasks—stair climbs, ladder raises, hose drags, and rescues. Train ahead of time to pass on your first try.
4. Take the Firefighter Written Exam
This exam assesses your mental readiness for the job. Strong prep with books like Mastering the Firefighter Exam can help you stand out.
5. Apply to Fire Departments
Visit city HR portals and job boards like the Kansas Fire & Rescue Training Institute listings. Submit your résumé, certifications, and application.
7. Go Through the Interview, Background, and Medical
You’ll face a formal interview, background investigation, psychological evaluation, and medical screening. Preparation and professionalism are key.
8. Complete a Fire Academy
If hired without Firefighter I and II, you’ll be enrolled in a fire academy to gain those certifications and hands-on experience.
Volunteer Firefighting in Kansas
Kansas relies heavily on volunteer firefighters, especially in rural areas. Volunteering is a great way to build experience and connections while you pursue certifications.
Check with your local department or visit the Kansas State Firefighters Association (KSFFA) to learn more.
Best All-in-one guide:
Written/Physical/Interview
Why Scoring High on the Firefighter Exam in Kansas is Crucial
No matter where you apply in Kansas, passing the firefighter exam is crucial. Here’s why:
Your success on the firefighter exam plays a pivotal role in your career prospects.
Each department uses the results of the entrance exam to create a ranked list of candidates, and departments typically hire directly from this list. Here’s what to expect:
- Written Exam: The higher your score, the better your chances of ranking at the top.
- Physical Ability Test (PAT or CPAT): The physical test is a rigorous part of the process. Scoring well ensures you demonstrate the physical stamina and skills needed for the job.
- Oral Interview: This is your chance to stand out as a candidate who’s not only physically qualified but also emotionally and mentally prepared for the demands of firefighting.
The higher your score, the better your chances of getting hired.
Free Written Exam Practice Tests
Getting Hired by Major Fire Departments in Kansas
Wichita Fire Department (WFD)
- Hiring: Every 1–2 years via City of Wichita job portal
- Required: EMT certification at hire; Firefighter I & II preferred
- Process: CPAT, written exam, interview panel, polygraph, medical and psych evaluations
- Academy: 16–20 weeks in-house
Overland Park Fire Department
- Hiring: Check City of Overland Park website for openings
- Preferred: EMT, Firefighter I & II; paramedic a plus
- Testing: CPAT, written exam, structured interview, psychological and background screening
- Academy: Johnson County Regional Fire Academy
Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department (KCKFD)
- Applications: Through Unified Government of Wyandotte County
- Required: EMT and Firefighter I & II prior to appointment
- Process: Written exam, CPAT, oral interview, polygraph, background check, and medical exam
- Academy: 16+ weeks of department-led training
It’s important to regularly check these websites for the most current information on application deadlines, eligibility requirements, and recruitment events.
Additionally, subscribing to interest lists or newsletters, can provide timely updates on upcoming opportunities.
Firefighter Salary in Kansas
Per 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data:
- Average Kansas firefighter salary: $48,900/year
- Higher salaries in Wichita, Overland Park, and Kansas City metro
- Increased pay for paramedics, engineers, captains, and long-serving personnel
Tips to Stand Out as a Firefighter Candidate in Kansas
To gain a competitive edge:
- Certify early: EMT and Firefighter I/II will give you a major edge
- Volunteer: Builds hands-on experience and networking opportunities
- Train physically: Start a CPAT prep program well in advance
- Study smart: Use high-quality test prep like Mastering the Firefighter Exam
- Network locally: Join KSFFA, visit open houses, and connect with local firefighters
Final Thoughts: How to Become a Firefighter in Kansas
Becoming a firefighter in Kansas is a rewarding career path that starts with the right preparation.
Whether you’re volunteering in a small town or aiming for a full-time job in a major city, mastering the written, physical, and interview components of the firefighter exam is essential.
Focus on training, certification, and standing out during testing, and you’ll be well on your way to joining the fire service in Kansas.
Start your journey today!
Prepare for the firefighter exam with the book Mastering the Firefighter Exam: The Proven Path from Applicant to Top Spot on the Hiring List. Plus, find testing opportunities at firefighter-test.com, our trusted affiliate partner.
