Firefighting is a competitive career path, and requirements may vary between municipalities, provinces, and private industries. This page outlines the minimum qualifications and additional credentials that may be needed to apply for a firefighter position in Ontario.
As a student of Southwest Fire Academy (SFA), it is your responsibility to understand and meet the hiring standards of the jurisdiction where you intend to apply.
Minimum Requirements to Apply as a Firefighter in Ontario
To be eligible for employment with an Ontario fire department, you must have:
- Be 18 years or older
- Legally eligible to work in Canada (citizen or permanent resident)
- No criminal convictions (unless a pardon has been granted)
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
- Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
- Fluent in English (spoken, written, and reading)
- Standard First Aid & CPR C/AED, current within 12 months of application
- Good vision:
- Uncorrected 20/30 in each eye
- Normal color vision (pass Ishihara or Farnsworth D-15 test)
- Depth perception and peripheral vision safe for firefighting
- Good hearing:
- No greater than 30 dB at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz
- No significant loss in higher frequencies
- Physically and mentally fit:
- Free from acrophobia (fear of heights) and claustrophobia
Additional Requirements That May Be Requested
Each municipality sets its own hiring standards. Some may also require:
- Firefighter certifications such as:
- Pre-Service Firefighter Education & Training Program
- NFPA 1001 Fire Fighter I & II (IFSAC or Pro Board accredited)
- OFM Curriculum Components 1, 2, and 3 (with exam certificate)
- 2+ years full-time or 5+ years part-time experience in a fire department
- Valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s License
- Maximum of 2 infractions (1 moving, 1 non-moving)
- Ontario “D-Z” License (may be required at application or within hiring timeframe)
- No more than 6 demerit points
- Less than 3 CVOR points/infractions in past 3 years
- Swimming and water safety ability (e.g., tread water test)
Qualifications That Give You an Edge
While not required, these qualifications can strengthen your application:
- Advanced EMS, First Aid, or medical training
- Work experience in related fields:
- Fire suppression, construction, trades, vehicle operation, EMS, prevention, or mechanical roles
- Volunteer or community service experience
- Fluency in additional spoken languages or sign language
Required Testing & Documentation
All firefighter applicants in Ontario must complete various assessments, which may include:
- Aptitude & interpersonal skills tests
- Vision and hearing screenings
- Physical and clinical fitness testing
- Firefighting technical skills evaluations
If you are offered a position (or conditional offer), you may also need to:
- Complete a medical exam
- Provide a current criminal background check, including a vulnerable sector screening
- Submit proof of education, certifications, and vaccination records
- Provide a valid unrestricted D-Z license and driver’s abstract
⚠️ Important:
Any applicant found to have falsified documents or misrepresented information will have their application permanently closed.
Planning to Work Outside Ontario?
If you’re looking to apply in another province, country, or private sector role, it’s your responsibility to research and meet their specific minimum standards and certifications.
Questions?
If you have any concerns about these requirements or how they apply to your goals, feel free to reach out to us:
📧 Email: registrations@fire-academy.ca
📞 Phone: (705) 510-9501