Application Fee
See agencyVerified by DE Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Delaware
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Delaware, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Firefighter in Delaware
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Current employment in field required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
Individuals must come into one of our two locations for fingerprint and picture processing.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Delaware State Police • Professional Licensing Section
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,060 median (19% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#32 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Delaware eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Current employment in field required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individuals must come into one of our two locations for fingerprint and picture processing.).
- 6. Submit the application to Delaware State Police~Professional Licensing Section and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Delaware
With a median salary of $48,060, Firefighters in Delaware earn 19% below the national median of $59,530. Delaware ranks #32 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.5%Average Weekly Wage
$1,371Median annual salary
$48,060Hourly estimate
$23.1119% below national median
Difference: -$11,470
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#32 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | $48,060 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $70,580 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $71,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| New Jersey | $87,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| New Jersey | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Delaware State Police • Professional Licensing Section
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Delaware
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $61,000 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $83,230 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $37,690 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in Delaware?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Firefighters in Delaware?
Delaware lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Firefighters.
What education do you need to become a Firefighter in Delaware?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Firefighter licensure in Delaware.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in Delaware?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Delaware is $48,060. Salaries range from $40,560 (10th percentile) to $72,380 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Delaware earn 19% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $48,060.
How many Firefighters work in Delaware?
Delaware employs approximately 450 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to Delaware from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Firefighters in Delaware?
The licensing agency is Delaware State Police / Professional Licensing Section. Review agency details at https://dsp.delaware.gov/professional-licensing/.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Delaware?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.