First, to start the application process, you will need to obtain an application. You can usually get information about the exam and application process from your city's department of personnel or from your local fire department. You might also be able obtain an application from your school guidance office or your local library.

You begin the application process by locating the appropriate agencies in your phone book. When you call the agency, be sure to have a pencil and paper ready to write down any instructions or directions you are given. You can explain that you need:

1. Information about the examination

2. The application itself

3. The correct procedure for filling out the application

If your city will be holding an examination in the near future, the agency (usually the municipalitie's human resources or personnel department) should be able to give you all the necessary information. If there is no examination scheduled in the near future, you'll need to ask how the examination notice will be made public, when it will be available, and where it will be published.

Make sure you submit our application on time

Most cities will require that you file for the examination by submitting your application by a certain date. If you are going to mail in the application, be sure it is postmarked before midnight on the closing date indicated on the job announcement. After you file, you will most likely be notified by mail as to where and when you should appear for the actual examination. Some cities give "walk-in exams" which do not require that you file an application in advance. The important thing is to know is if there is a filing date cut- off. If so, make sure that you file before that date.

Preparing for the examination

The best way to prepare for the firefighter exam is to first study the sample questions you will find on our web site (see information, below). This will give you an idea of what to expect. Next, you should get one of the following books:

-Barron's Firefighter Exams by James J. Murtagh

-Firefighter Written Tests - Physical Exams by Robert Andriuolo

-Master the Firefighter Exam by Fred M. Rafilson

You may be able to find one or more of these books at your local library. If not, try contacting your nearest community college to see if it offers any firefighting or related classes. If so, it may sell one of these books in its bookstore. Or the store might be able to order it for you.

However, the best bet is Amazon.com. We found that you can find all three of these books on this site and buy used copies at very reasonable costs. Just remember that it will take at least three to five days for the book to arrive after you order it.