Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Is the Department currently accepting applications and how can I obtain an application?
A:  The application process is open year round and we are accepting applications.  Applications may be obtained at any Fairfax County Fire and Rescue stations, online or by calling the Recruitment Section at (703) 246-3939.

Q:  How can I become a volunteer?
A:  Contact the Volunteer Liaison Office at (703) 246-3926 or visit the volunteer page.

Q:  Once I have completed the process, will I be hired?
A:  You will receive a completion letter once you have completed our process.  You are eligible for consideration for two years for any forthcoming recruit school.  However, if you have not been chosen within the two years, your file expires and you must reapply. 

Q:  Will you accept another state’s EMT certification?
A:  We recognize National Registry Intermediate-99 and Paramedic and Virginia Intermediate-99 and Paramedic.

Q: If I have successfully pass CPAT with another jurisdiction, can I be exempted?
A:  You may be CPAT exempted as long as you have provided valid documentation that you have successfully passed CPAT with a jurisdiction licensed under the IAFF/IAFC.   However, CPAT must have been completed within a year from your application date.

Q:  How many candidates do you hire and how often do you have recruit schools?
A:  Generally, there are thirty candidates hired per recruit school and four recruit schools per year.

Q:  I was disqualified from the process, can you tell me why?
A:  If an applicant is disqualified from the process a nonspecific disqualification letter is sent, however, if an applicant who wishes to know specific information to his/her disqualification he/she must contact recruitment staff. 

Q:  I took the written exam and failed.  When can I reapply?
A:  If an applicant is unsuccessful in passing the written exam or CPAT, he/she must wait a minimum of six months before he/she is eligible to reapply.

Q:  What are the working hours of this position?
A:   We average the work hours to a 56 hour work week; 24 hours shift every other day for three days with four days break.  To view a sample shift calendar, visit: shift calendar.

Q:  I am in the military and want to start the process, when should I submit an application? 
A:   We highly recommend you submit your application once you have completed your military duties and have been released.  You will be required to attend all scheduled events and failure to do so will disqualify you from further consideration.  We do not place files on military hold. 

Q:  I am a firefighter in another state, do you accept lateral transfers?
A:  We do not accept lateral transfers.  All applicants are required to complete the application process. 

Q:  I have my EMT-P in another state, how do I establish reciprocity in Virginia?
A:  To establish reciprocity in Virginia, contact the Virginia Department of Health at 1 -800 -523 -6019  or by visiting the Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services website.