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â If you are dedicated, though donât have time to run your EMT training in parallel with your fire training, and assuming you are hired by the department on your first attempt, it will take you 3.5 to 4 years to become a firefighter (though you will be a probationary firefighter after 3 â 3.5 years).
Requirements for becoming a volunteer firefighter vary by fire department. Most departments require firefighters to be 18 years of age or older and hold a high school diploma or the equivalent. Candidates are generally required to pass written and physical exams, drug screenings and background checks.