Boise Fire Entry Level FAQs

Boise Fire Entry Level Hiring/Recruit Academy

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

See 2025-2026 Recruiting Process and Important Dates

1. When is the next application period?

The 2026 hiring timeline has not been determined, but it will be similar to 2025. Application links are only active during this window. Applicants are encouraged to subscribe to the recruitment e-newsletter for updates.

2. Is there a benefit to applying on the first day vs the last day of the application period?

No. All applications are reviewed after the application period closes. There is no advantage to submitting early. Applications will not be accepted after the deadline for any reason.

EMT/AEMT/NREMT/Paramedic Certification

3. When do I need my EMT/AEMT/NREMT/ Paramedic Certification?

Applicants must possess the required certification by the close of applications. Proof of certification must be uploaded in NeoGov during application in the certifications section. Applications submitted without the required certification will be disqualified.

4. Are out-of-state EMT certifications accepted?

Yes. Out-of-state certifications are accepted for application purposes. If hired, candidates are responsible for obtaining Idaho reciprocity at their own expense. Certifications must be valid and in good standing.

5. Is National Registry (NREMT) certification accepted?

Yes. A valid NREMT certification in good standing is acceptable.

6. Can Boise Fire recommend an EMT Certification program?

No. Candidates must research and select an EMT program that best fits their needs.

Idaho Driver's License

7. Do I need an Idaho driver’s license to apply?

No. Any valid, state-issued driver’s license is acceptable at the time of application.

Qualifications / Requirements

8. What are the minimum qualifications to apply?

There are five basic requirements for Boise Fire:

• Must be a minimum of 18 years old
• High school diploma or GED
• Possess a valid driver's license
• Possess a current National Registry or state-issued EMS (EMT, Advanced or Paramedic) Basic Certification by close of application period
• Be able to meet physically demanding standards

9. Does Boise Fire offer lateral hiring?

No. Boise Fire does not currently have a lateral hiring program. All applicants must complete the entry-level hiring process and Recruit Academy. There is no plan for a future lateral academy at this time.

10. Is there an age limit?

No maximum age limit. The minimum age is 18.

11. Is there a residency or distance requirement?

No. There are no residency or distance restrictions.

12. Does Boise Fire hire women?

Yes.

13. Will colorblindness or vision issues disqualify me?

Colorblindness will not disqualify a candidate from the application process. An eye exam will be administered by our department physician during a candidate's physical exam.

14. Will a criminal record disqualify me?

Applicants, volunteers, or employees are not automatically disqualified from employment or volunteer service based on their criminal record. Because of the city’s role and the importance of its reputation in the community, a detailed review is performed for individuals with felony convictions, and felony or misdemeanor convictions related to sexual misconduct, violence, or crimes against children or a vulnerable adult.

15. Are tattoos allowed?

Yes. However, per Boise Fire Policy 17; There shall be no tattoo above the collar of the Boise Fire Department-issued short-sleeved T-shirt. The display of ANY unprofessional or offensive tattoo(s), regardless of its location, is prohibited and must be covered. Unprofessional or offensive is defined as: nudity, sexually explicit or vulgar, profane words and phrases, symbols to incite negative reactions, initials or acronyms that represent criminal or oppressive organizations.

Salary

16. What is the firefighter salary?

Please refer to the Firefighter Salary Schedule for current wage information.

View Firefighter Salary Schedule

17. Is there additional pay for Firefighter/Paramedics?

Yes. After Recruit Academy, Firefighter/Paramedics receive an additional 10% of base pay while in the Field Training Program, contingent upon successful completion and required testing.

Recruit Academy / Operations

18. What is the work schedule?

Firefighters work a 48/96 schedule (48 hours on, 96 hours off). Recruits are assigned to A, B, or C shift upon successful completion of recruit academy.

19. Is Boise Fire a combination department?

Yes. Boise Fire is a combination structural and wildland department. Firefighters are not eligible for wildland deployment during their first year.

20. What is the hiring timeline?

The next hiring cycle is expected to begin Fall 2026 for a Spring 2027 Recruit Academy; all dates are subject to change.

21. How many positions are available?

Boise Fire anticipates hiring 10–15 recruits for the 2027 Recruit Academy.

22. Is Recruit Academy paid?

Yes. Recruit Academy is paid starting on the first day.

23. How long is Recruit Academy?

Approximately 19–20 weeks, full-time, Monday through Friday.

Written Exam

24. How is the written exam conducted?

The written exam is conducted virtually through Public Safety Answers (PSA). All application steps must be completed by the close of applications.

25. What score is needed to advance?

Cutoff scores vary each year and are determined after testing.

26. Can I reuse a recent PSA score?

Yes. If an applicant has taken the PSA exam within the last 3 months of the application window, a pop-up will appear on the applicant's screen informing them their exam score is still valid and automatically move them on to the video interview process.

27. Do I need to complete the exam and interview at the same time?

The written exam must be completed in one sitting. The virtual interview may be completed separately.

28. What does the exam evaluate?

The exam is designed to assess both cognitive abilities and natural behavioral traits relevant to a career in firefighting. The cognitive portion includes reading comprehension, basic math, and problem-solving skills, all at approximately a 10th-grade level. The behavioral portion looks at how candidates naturally respond in various situations. We encourage candidates to answer honestly and not to overthink their responses.

29. How do I prepare for the written exam?

PSA offers a practice test available for purchase online.

30. How do I prepare for the virtual interview?

Candidates should ensure they are in a quiet, well-lit location with a stable internet connection. Additionally, candidates may seek out interview preparation courses or resources independently.

31. What if I am experiencing a hardship and cannot afford the cost of the written exam?

Applicants experiencing a financial hardship should email BFDRecruitment@cityofboise.org as soon as possible during application.

Physical Fitness Test & Oral Interview

32. Who advances to the physical fitness test?

Top candidates from the written exam will be invited. The test is pass/fail. Failure to pass results in disqualification.

33. When do oral interviews occur?

Candidates who pass the physical fitness test will complete their oral interview the following day at the Fire Training Center.

34. What should I bring with me to the oral interview?

Candidates may bring any supplemental materials not included in their NeoGov application. All documents submitted through NeoGov will already be printed and available for the interview panel.

Additional Information

35. Does Boise Fire offer ride-alongs?

No. Ride-alongs are not offered to the general public. Attending a Boise Fire Station Open House is a great way to engage with the department.

36. Who should I address my cover letter to?

"To Whom It May Concern" or "To Boise Fire Department"

37. How can I stay informed about future hiring?

Subscribe to the Boise Fire recruitment e-newsletter and follow Boise Fire on social media.

38. How many times will I need to travel to Boise?

Typically twice: once for the physical fitness test and interview, and once for onboarding and pre-employment requirements. Any time spent in Boise outside those mandatory dates will be at the candidate’s discretion.

39. Does Boise Fire pay for relocation?

No. Relocation and housing expenses are the responsibility of the candidate. The department does not sponsor or host any recruits during recruit academy.

**ADA Accommodations: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, disabled applicants who need reasonable accommodation to participate in the written exam shall submit a written request for accommodation to Jaimee Dye at jmdye@cityofboise.org. Requests for a reasonable accommodation must be clearly defined. Applicants must attach documentation from a medical provider or accredited counseling agency stating the disability, functional limitations and proposed accommodation. In accordance with the law, the city will review all requests and will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants that provide appropriate documentation by the deadline stated.