The Cadet Program is a one-year program that provides District of Columbia residents between the ages of 18 and 21 years old the opportunity to become members of the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (DCFEMS).  During the program, Cadets attain their National Registry EMT, Firefighter I & II, and Hazardous Materials Awareness & Operations Certificates. The Cadet participate in a departmental rotation, where they are exposed and acclimated to all aspects of the D. C. Fire and EMS Department.

Eligibility 

Those interested in the Fire Cadet Program must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Be a DC Resident

• Be a DC Public, Public Charter or Private High School Graduate, with a diploma or GED at the time of application

• Be between the ages of 18 - 21 years old at the time of application

• Have had a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.0

• Have a driver's license, provisional license or learner permit at the time of application

Salary/Benefits

Once evaluated and selected Cadets earn an annual salary of $30,472 and accrue 4 hours of paid annual and sick leave bi-weekly.

Upon successful completion of the Program, new Firefighter EMT recruits will earn a starting salary of $55,030 annually, accrue 4.5 hours of paid annual and sick leave bi-weekly, and have access to health and life insurances and union representation.

Screening Process

Selected candidates are required to:

• Complete a Personal History Application;

• Undergo a criminal background check

• Provide a copy of their driving record from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV);

• Undergo a physical examination and a psychological evaluation by the Police and Fire Clinic (PFC);

• Provide Reference Checks;

• Verify US Citizenship; and

• Verify Selective Service Registry (males only).

To apply for the Fire Cadet Program you must submit the following documents:

1. Driver’s License or Driver’s Learners Permit;

2. High School Diploma / GED Certificate; and

3. Final High School Transcript / GED Transcript.
   

Cadet Office Contact Information:
DC Fire and EMS Recruitment Office
2000 14th Street NW
Washington, DC 20009
202-673-3330