What are the requirements to become a firefighter in Massachusetts?

Most Massachusetts firefighters need a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, and to pass a background check, plus role-specific items like valid driver's license, birth certificate or passport, high school diploma / ged. Physical readiness for the CPAT is also expected.

What fitness test do firefighters take in Massachusetts?

Firefighters typically prepare for the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). Built for the Badge trains women to the exact CPAT standards with a free readiness assessment.

How many firefighter jobs are open in Massachusetts right now?

There are currently 20 active firefighter openings in Massachusetts on Built for the Badge, updated weekly from official agency boards.

Career guide · Massachusetts

How to Become a Female Firefighter in Massachusetts

20 active openings· pay $49k–$91k/yr

New to this path? Start with the firefighter career guide →

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Massachusetts Firefighter requirements

The core documents and certifications most Massachusetts departments expect from firefighter candidates:

✓Valid driver's license
✓Birth certificate or passport
✓High school diploma / GED
✓EMT-Basic certification
✓CPR / BLS certification
✓CPAT completion certificate
✓Firefighter I certification
✓Firefighter II certification
✓Physical exam clearance letter
✓Background check authorization

CPAT fitness standards

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) benchmarks. Women pass these at high rates when they train to them specifically — here are the minimum and target numbers:

Event	Minimum	Target
Push-Ups	25 reps	40 reps
Pull-Ups	3 reps	8 reps
Sit-Ups (1 min)	25 reps	40 reps
1.5-Mile Run	15:30	13:00
Stair Climb (Step Mill Hold)	200 sec	170 sec
Victim Drag (165 lbs, 35 ft)	35 sec	25 sec