Basic Fire Fighting

Program Description

How do I become a firefighter in Texas?

Our Basic Firefighting program is designed to train and certify you to be a firefighter in Texas.

Our classes are taught by certified firefighter instructors accredited by Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP).

How long is the program?

Our program is offered through the TCC Fire Academy.

We teach in an academy format, which means you will take 6 classes simultaneously.

• Days: Monday–Friday
• Length: 14 weeks
• Time: 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Start of classes: each January, May & August
• Cost (estimated): $1,700–$2,400, including:
• Tuition
• Textbook
• Uniforms
• Bunker gear rental

What else do I need to know?

You must:

• Be in excellent physical condition because the program is both physically and mentally demanding
• Be ready to take written exams on a weekly basis
• Complete each course with a minimum grade of C to qualify to take the state certification exam
• Be able to keep absences to a minimum throughout the program because of the fast-paced teaching format
• Realize that when you submitting an application does not guarantee you a place in the program
• Know space is limited to 24 students per class

Request an Information Packet

• TCC Basic Fire Academy: Information Request Form

Credentials in Detail

After successfully completing our program, you will receive a Basic Firefighter Certificate of Completion.

At the end of the class, the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) Basic Fire Suppression certification exam is administered. If you succeed, you will be eligible to apply for the Basic Fire Suppression certification with the TCFP.

Licensing Notice: Texas House Bill 1508

This program prepares you for an occupational license. However, you may not be eligible for licensing if you have a prior criminal history.

For more details, see Texas House Bill 1508 Licensing Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, you must:

• Be 18 years or older
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Have a Texas driver license
• Hold a minimum of Emergency Medical Technician—Basic (EMT-B) Certificate of Completion by the program start date
  • Learn about TCC's EMT-B Offerings
• Be admitted to TCC
  • Credit students: Apply for admission to TCC
  • Continuing education students: How do I register for continuing education classes?
  • Meningitis vaccine may be required
• Submit completed Fire Academy application packet
  • See How to Apply to the Fire Academy for more details
• Pass the Physical Agility Test, which includes:
  • 1.5 Mile Run (14 minutes or less)
  • Ladder Lift & Carry (30 seconds)
  • Blackout Drill (not timed)
  • Stairwell Climb with two ½” Dry Hose Bundle (1.15 minutes)
  • Hoisting of 2½” hose to 4th floor of drill tower (30 seconds)

Placement is determined immediately after the Physical Agility Test. 

Course List

• Basic Fire Fighting

Costs & Fees

Costs and fees vary. Costs are available in Hello!TCC's Continuing Education Course Descriptions.

How to Apply

This program is offered through TCC's Fire Academy.

For information about admission requirements and the application process:

• Fire Academy
  • How to Apply
  • Costs
  • Important Dates