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The DC Fire Cadet Program offers District residents aged 18-21 a chance to join the DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Cadets earn a salary while gaining essential certifications. Successful completion leads to a firefighter EMT role with competitive pay and benefits.
Office Hours
Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 4:45 pm, except District holidays. Firehouses are operational 24/7/365.
Connect With Us
899 North Capitol Street, NE, Suite 3100, Washington, DC 20002
Phone: (202) 673-3320
Fax: (202) 462-0807
TTY: 711
Email: info.fems@dc.gov
Ask the Chief
Amharic (አማርኛ) French (Français) Korean (한국어) Mandarin (中文) Spanish (Español) Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)
Thank you for your interest in serving as a DC Fire and EMS Cadet
The Cadet Class 28 applications period is now closed.
The Cadet Class 29 application period will open in Spring 2026.
Fire Cadet Program
The Fire Cadet Program is a one-year program that provides District of Columbia residents, between the ages of 18-21, the opportunity to become members of the DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department. During the program, cadets attain their National Registry EMT certification, Firefighter I & II, and Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations certificates.
Salary/Benefits
Cadets selected for the program earn an annual salary of $35,734.40 and accrue four hours of paid annual and sick leave bi-weekly.
Upon successful completion of the program, new firefighter EMT recruits will early a starting salary of $62,236.00 annually, accrue 4.5 hours of paid annual an sick leave bi-weekly, and have access to health and life insurance.
Selection Process
Those interested are required to:
To apply for the Fire Cadet Program, you must submit the following documents:
*Current High School seniors are encouraged to apply if they meet all requirements. School representatives must provide documentation that all educational requirements will be met upon graduation.
All required documents (birth certificate or valid US Passport, valid drivers license or learners permit, and high school diploma) must be uploaded at the time of application submission to move forward in the selection process.
How do I add attachments?
Once application is completed, return to the "My Job Application" then scroll to the bottom, then click on "My Cover Letters and Attachments" and upload the required documents. Please note that attachments are not specific to a job application and will be visible for any DC job that you apply for.
Info Regarding Testing
All applicants who meet eligibility requirements will be referred for an entrance exam. Fire Cadet Program applicants will have testing paid for by the District of Columbia based on their resident status.
Recruitment Office Contact Information
DC Fire and EMS Recruitment Office
899 North Capitol Street NE
Washington, DC 20002
202-673-3330