If you’re wondering how to become a firefighter in New Jersey, you’re not alone.
New Jersey is home to some of the busiest fire departments in the country, including Newark, Jersey City, and Paterson.
Whether you’re aiming to serve in a large urban department or a smaller suburban or volunteer company, the path to becoming a firefighter in New Jersey is competitive and rigorous—but with the right preparation, it’s absolutely within reach.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know to launch your fire service career in the Garden State.
Minimum Requirements to Become a Firefighter in New Jersey
New Jersey has standardized requirements for many departments, especially those that operate under civil service rules. Basic qualifications include:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- U.S. citizenship
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid New Jersey driver’s license
- Pass background check and drug screening
- Meet medical and psychological standards
- Pass the NJ Firefighter Entry Exam (written and physical)
Many departments prefer or require:
- EMT certification (or paramedic)
- Firefighter I and II certifications
- New Jersey Civil Service registration (if applicable)
Why the Firefighter Exam Is So Important in New Jersey
In most New Jersey cities, your position on the hiring list depends almost entirely on how well you perform on the firefighter exam process, which includes:
Written Exam (NJ Civil Service Test)
This multiple-choice exam tests math, reading comprehension, mechanical aptitude, situational judgment, and more. It’s scored and ranked—top scorers move forward, and everyone else waits.
Physical Performance Test (PPT or CPAT)
You must prove you can handle the demands of the job through real-world firefighting tasks like:
- Stair climbs with equipment
- Hose drags
- Ladder raises
- Victim rescue drags
Oral Interview
Often the final hurdle, where a panel judges your communication, professionalism, and suitability for fire service.
Tip: High exam scores = faster hiring. Low scores = long wait lists.
Prep with Firefighter-Test.com and Mastering the Firefighter Exam to maximize your chances.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Firefighter in New Jersey
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Requirements
Make sure you’re 18+, have a valid driver’s license, and meet the legal and educational standards.
Step 2: Register for the New Jersey Civil Service Firefighter Exam
- Offered by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission
- Usually offered every 1–2 years
- Applicants must file online during open enrollment
- Exam ranking determines eligibility for most full-time jobs
Step 3: Pass the Written Exam and PPT
- Written test score determines ranking
- You must also pass the physical test, often conducted separately
Step 4: Get Certified (EMT, Firefighter I/II)
Some departments require these before hiring; others will train you after selection. But having them in advance boosts your competitiveness.
Step 5: Interview, Background, and Medical Evaluation
Departments conduct thorough screenings. Be honest, prepared, and professional.
Step 6: Attend Fire Academy
Once hired, you’ll go through intense training at a state-approved fire academy.
Volunteer and Combination Fire Departments
New Jersey has hundreds of volunteer and combination departments—perfect for building experience while waiting for a civil service exam cycle:
- Free training opportunities
- Networking and mentorship
- Often required for full-time department preference
Best All-in-one guide:
Written/Physical/Interview
Why Scoring High on the Firefighter Exam in New Jersey is Crucial
No matter where you apply in New Jersey, 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.
Try the Free Written Exam Practice Tests
Getting Hired by Major Fire Departments in New Jersey
Newark Fire Division
- One of the busiest departments in the U.S.
- Civil service-based hiring
- Must score high on the state exam
- Preferred: EMT, Firefighter I/II
- Insider Tip: Pre-certification and residency can give you an edge
Jersey City Fire Department
- Large department with over 500 firefighters
- Must pass NJ Civil Service exam
- Preferred qualifications: EMT, Firefighter I/II, bilingual skills
- Note: Strong emphasis on community involvement and public safety
Paterson Fire Department
- Responds to a high volume of fire and EMS calls
- Civil service-based; written test and physical test required
- Preferred: Firefighter I & II, EMT
- Offers promotional opportunities and a structured academy
Elizabeth Fire Department
- Mid-sized but very competitive
- Requires NJ Civil Service exam
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 New Jersey
Based on 2024 data:
- Entry-level (smaller towns): $45,000 – $55,000
- Mid-sized cities: $60,000 – $75,000
- Large departments (Newark, Jersey City): $80,000+ with overtime
- Additional benefits: Pensions, health coverage, tuition reimbursement, generous vacation
How to Stand Out as a Firefighter Applicant in New Jersey
To gain a competitive edge:
- Score as high as possible on the civil service exam
- Start EMT training early
- Join a volunteer department
- Practice for CPAT-style physical testing
- Use practice exams from trusted sources like Firefighter-Test.com
Final Thoughts: How to Become a Firefighter in New Jersey
Becoming a firefighter in New Jersey is a dream job—but it takes planning, preparation, and top-tier exam performance to make it happen.
Whether you’re targeting a major city department or a local volunteer fire company, the steps are clear.
Start preparing early, earn your certifications, and focus on crushing the exam process to stand out from the competition.
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.
