Reignite your passion

portrait of diffrent firefighters in a row

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.

hfd on boat on water
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


2026 & 2027 Projected Academy Dates

All projected dates are subject to change based on the needs of the Houston Fire Department.

Next C.S.E. January 2027


June 22, 2026

Certified (Fire & EMT)
June 22, 2026
Certified (EMT only)
October 26, 2026
Certified (Fire Only)
October 26, 2026
Non-Certified
January 11, 2027
Certified (Fire & EMT)
January 11, 2027
Certified (EMT Only)
March 29, 2027
Certified (Fire & EMT)
April 12, 2027
Non-Certified
June 21, 2027
Certified (Fire & EMT)
June 21, 2027
Certified (Fire Only)
June 21, 2027
Non-Certified



First Friday with a Firefighter

Women's Career & Fitness Experience


July 10, 2026-FFF
July 10, 2026-WCFE
August 7, 2026-FFF
August 7, 2026-WCFE
September 4, 2026-FFF
September 4, 2026-WCFE
October 2, 2026-FFF
October 2, 2026-WCFE
November 6, 2026-FFF
November 6, 2026-WCFE

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.