DCFD - FF/EMT Testing Schedule

[CapitolSeagrave]

The word on the street is that DCFD will be doing an entrance exam at some point this year. The exact time frame is unknown, but the application process was opened up in May for the current test. This means that they will be on a 2 year testing cycle like other major cities. The exam will be catered towards DC residents, which means that if you want to work for the department you need to establish your residency. This will make DC similar to the way Boston Fire operates, with one big difference. Residency for Boston is one year prior to the test and DC residency is "at the time of taking the test". Establishing residency and getting hired hasn't been possible in DC before because of the inconsistent testing dates (it was 5-6 years in between tests for a while). If the exam is going to be every two years, then it will be much safer to establish residency and be at the top of the list.

Establishing residency is a common theme for many big cities. Anyone who aspires to be a Boston or FDNY fireman knows they have to move to the city before the test. Now DC will be the same. In a nut shell; if you want to get hired by DCFD then move to the city as fast as you can and your likelihood of being hired will be increased. There were many frustrated candidates during the last testing process, and rightfully so, because only DC residents were hired. Don't set yourself up to not be hired if you want to be on the job in DC.

[dctalk523]

Bummer to hear out of state candidates will have a tough time w/ the process

[CapitolSeagrave]

Bummer to hear out of state candidates will have a tough time w/ the process

It can be viewed two ways:

Advantage - if we hire 200 FFs from the list there is very good chance that every resident will be considered. Non residents don't even bother taking civil service exams in other states because their odds are slim to none. This will put DC on that level. Get residency and get hired.

Disadvantage - this has been the way for several years now so its time to adapt and overcome. If you want to be considered for a position then you need to play every card that is at your disposal. There are plenty of others who are willing to take the J-O-B.

If you are an out of state veteran you may have a chance at getting called. The preference points were resident, veteran, and foster care on the last test. Yes, foster care - as bizarre as it sounds. A resident veteran would probably be in the first class.

This is reality now. Play your cards the right way.