How to get hired at Raleigh Fire Department

Written by a career firefighter · Updated 2026-11-04

Raleigh Fire runs a yearly recruitment through the city's NEOGOV job portal, and no prior firefighting experience is needed. Applicants pass a Physical Agility Test, a written aptitude test and an oral interview, then background, medical and psychological checks before the academy. Applicants who already hold EMT certification go to one academy, and those without certifications go to a later academy that provides all training.

Apply / get notifiedOfficial recruitment page

Minimum requirements

• At least 18 by the application closing date src
• Proof of high school diploma or equivalent src
• Valid driver's license src
• Corrected vision of at least 20/30 in both eyes src
• No prior firefighting experience required src

Certifications

• EMT: earned in the academy
• Firefighter I/II: not required (academy provided)

Source: official page

Tests

• Physical Agility Test (PAT) (physical): Strength, endurance and coordination src
• Candidate Written Aptitude Test (written): No retest src
• Oral interview (oral) src

Hiring process

1. Apply online (NEOGOV)
2. Physical Agility Test
3. Written aptitude test
4. Oral interview
5. Contingent offer
6. Background, driving record, drug test, medical, psych
7. Academy and probation

Source: official page

Academy

Two 2027 academies: Academy 59 (spring 2027) for EMT-certified hires, and Academy 60 (shortly after) for uncertified hires with all training provided; length not stated src

Checked 2026-11-05 against the department's official pages (linked). Hiring windows open and close quickly; always confirm on the official site before you apply. See every academy, EMT program and test site in North Carolina.