This is a Firefighter I Academy, held at the Public Safety Training Center in San Marcos. The academy is a one-semester course, meeting Monday through Friday. Two academies are offered per year, in the fall and spring semesters. The application window for the fall semester typically opens mid-April and closes at the end of May. For the spring semester, the application window typically opens mid-September and closes at the end of October.
The application process consists of submission of the application, followed by a physical ability test, concluding with an oral interview. Selection into the academy is based on a point system. Please see the screening sheet in “Academy Documents” for the point breakdown.
Entry Requirements
All applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Possess a current, valid National Registry or county EMT card. You must have this at the time of application, no exceptions. For information regarding Palomar College’s EMT course, follow this link: https://www.palomar.edu/eme/emt/
- Possess a valid California driver’s license.
- Be a minimum of 18 years of age.
- High School transcript, high school diploma or GED.
- Submit academy application.
- Pass a physical agility test (in 5 minutes, 54 seconds), which is part of the application process.
- Be medically cleared to participate in a dynamic physical conditioning program (this is discussed at orientation).
- Not have been convicted of a felony, and certain misdemeanors, in any state. (pc 1201 & 12021.1)
The below minimum required items must accompany the application:
- California driver’s license
- Current CPR card
- Current EMT-B National Registry ( NREMT card, NOT an NREMT certificate)
- Proof of high school or GED completion
Optional Items
| ITEM | HOW TO SHOW PROOF |
|---|---|
| Fire Technology core or related classes | Unofficial transcript reflecting grades for classes (must display student’s name, no screenshots) |
| Completion of 2 or 4 year college | Copy of diploma or unofficial transcripts |
| Paramedic certification | National Registry or San Diego County Paramedic license |
| EMT or Paramedic employment | Copy of paystub, W-2 or letter from employer confirming employment |
| Fire Explorer, Volunteer Fire Fighter or Reserve Fire Fighter | Report of hours, training record, W-2 or employee ID card |
| Honorable Military Discharge | DD214 displaying honorable discharge |
The only item that may be submitted via email after the initial application is transcripts for completed fire classes. Keep in mind that courses in progress will not count for points on the fire academy application. Fire classes taken in the fall semester will not be completed in time to receive points for the following spring fire academy.
All communication regarding the application process will be via email. Applicants will be notified of each step in the process. After submission of a complete application, candidates will receive an email to sign up for the PAT. Please allow one week for the PAT notification email.
For further information, please contact Carole Musgrove, Career Technical Program Specialist cmusgrove@palomar.edu. Students who are dismissed from the fire academy for any reason must reapply for admission into a future fire academy.
Fire Academy 69 Application (Available September 15, 2025)