Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Firefighter in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 1-18 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Continuing education and program notes
- certification as a Fire Fighter I/II, certification to the Hazardous Materials/WMD Awareness and Operations levels is required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama Fire College
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,490 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Alabama eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Alabama Fire College and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of $47,490, Firefighters in Alabama earn 20% below the national median of $59,530. Alabama ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1-18 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median annual salary
$47,490Hourly estimate
$22.8320% below national median
Difference: -$12,040
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#35 of 50 statesfor Firefighter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $93,490 |
| #2 | New York | $88,380 |
| #3 | New Jersey | $87,660 |
| #4 | California | $83,400 |
| #5 | Illinois | $79,080 |
Nearby States Comparison
Firefighter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $47,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 1-18 years |
| Tennessee | $47,300 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $45,970 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Florida | $58,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $36,980 | No educational requirements | Choice of state or third-party exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Tennessee | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Alabama Fire College
2501 Phoenix Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35406
Phone: 2053913745
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $46,400 | Varies by state board | 19 years |
| Police Officer | $53,850 | Varies by state board | 19 years |
| Security Guards | $31,210 | Varies by state board | 1-5 years |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1-18 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Alabama is $47,490. Salaries range from $30,880 (10th percentile) to $73,360 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Alabama earn 20% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $47,490.
How many Firefighters work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 6,930 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Firefighters in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama Fire College. Review agency details at https://www.alabamafirecollege.org/.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Alabama?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.