If you’re wondering how to become a firefighter in Louisiana, you’re not alone.
If you’re looking to serve your community through fire service, Louisiana offers a range of career paths—from volunteer positions in rural areas to competitive, full-time roles in major cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport.
This guide will walk you through every step of how to become a firefighter in Louisiana, including department-specific tips and why the firefighter exam is so important to your success.
General Steps to Become a Firefighter in Louisiana
Each department may have its own standards, but most Louisiana fire departments require the following minimum qualifications:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Louisiana driver’s license
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- No felony convictions
- Pass background check, drug screening, and medical exam
- Meet physical fitness requirements (CPAT or equivalent)
Additional preferred qualifications:
- EMT certification (Emergency Medical Technician)
- Firefighter I and II certification (IFSAC or ProBoard)
Why the Firefighter Exam is So Important
In Louisiana, as in many states, firefighter jobs are extremely competitive. Hundreds of candidates may apply for only a handful of openings. What separates those who get hired from those who don’t? Performance on the firefighter exam.
Written Exam
Assesses cognitive skills like reading comprehension, math, mechanical aptitude, and situational judgment. High scores help you rank at the top of hiring lists.
Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
This test evaluates whether you have the endurance, strength, and agility to handle real-world firefighting duties. It’s pass/fail—but failing means you’re out of the process.
Oral Interview
Departments assess how well you communicate, your motivation, character, and whether you’re a good fit for the team. It can be the deciding factor between final candidates.
Tip: Prepare with resources like Mastering the Firefighter Exam and Firefighter-Test.com to crush every phase of the exam process.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Firefighter in Louisiana
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Foundational requirement for any firefighting career. Consider taking electives in biology, health, or mechanical trades.
2. Complete EMT Training
EMT certification is highly preferred or required in most urban departments. Consider schools like:
- Louisiana State University – Eunice
- Delgado Community College (New Orleans)
- Baton Rouge Community College
3. Pass the CPAT
The Candidate Physical Ability Test is used by many Louisiana fire departments to assess physical readiness. Train consistently in cardio, strength, and endurance before your test.
4. Take the Firefighter Written Exam
This critical test evaluates your mental aptitude. Use targeted study guides like Mastering the Firefighter Exam to improve your score.
5. Apply to Fire Departments
Monitor job openings on city websites, the Louisiana State Civil Service job board, and local department sites.
6. Complete Interviews, Background Checks, and Medical Exams
Expect to go through a formal interview panel, drug screening, criminal background investigation, psychological assessment, and a full medical exam.
7. Attend Fire Academy Training
Most departments offer a 12–20 week fire academy if you haven’t already completed Firefighter I/II.
Louisiana Fire Academies & Training Centers
Top training centers in Louisiana include:
- LSU Fire & Emergency Training Institute (FETI) – Offers Firefighter I & II, Hazmat Awareness & Ops, and advanced rescue training
- Louisiana Fire and Emergency Training Academy (LFETA) – A recognized state training provider
- Local training facilities tied to community colleges and municipal departments
Volunteer Firefighting in Louisiana
Many of Louisiana’s fire departments are combination or fully volunteer-based, especially in rural parishes. Volunteering is a great way to gain experience, complete training, and position yourself for full-time hiring.
Visit the Louisiana State Firemen’s Association or contact your local department to find opportunities.
Best All-in-one guide:
Written/Physical/Interview
Why Scoring High on the Firefighter Exam in Louisiana is Crucial
No matter where you apply in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana
New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD)
- Hiring Process: Apply through the City of New Orleans Civil Service
- Requirements: Must be at least 18, pass Civil Service exam, and meet medical and physical fitness standards
- Certifications: Firefighter I/II and EMT typically earned in academy
- Training: Paid fire academy, about 6 months long
Baton Rouge Fire Department
- Application: Through City of Baton Rouge HR
- Testing: Written exam, CPAT, structured interview, background and psych evaluation
- Certifications: Firefighter I/II and EMT required after hire
- Academy: In-house training provided for new recruits
Shreveport Fire Department
- Hiring: Via City of Shreveport Civil Service Office
- Minimums: Must pass written test and physical ability assessment
- Certifications: Firefighter I & II and EMT provided during training
- Academy: 16–20 weeks of rigorous, department-led instruction
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 Louisiana
Based on 2024 BLS data:
- Average salary for firefighters in Louisiana: $44,500/year
- Higher salaries in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport metro areas
- Additional pay for overtime, certifications, and promotions
Tips to Stand Out as a Firefighter Candidate in Louisiana
To gain a competitive edge:
- Ace the firefighter exam: Written, CPAT, and interview scores matter most
- Get certified early: EMT and Firefighter I/II help you qualify for more departments
- Volunteer: Build experience and connections
- Train hard: CPAT is no joke—prepare months in advance
- Use top prep materials: Mastering the Firefighter Exam and Firefighter-Test.com offer targeted practice
Final Thoughts: How to Become a Firefighter in Louisiana
Starting a fire service career in Louisiana takes hard work, dedication, and strategy.
Whether you’re applying in a small town or a major city like New Orleans or Baton Rouge, your success hinges on how well you perform during the firefighter testing process.
Focus on physical training, academic preparation, and making a great impression during interviews—and you’ll be ready to earn your place in the firehouse.
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.
