Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Iowa, 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 Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Affidavit or referral required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.
- 4
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Tied to business.
Continuing education and program notes
- Certification is required of any contractors or installers of fire extinguishing systems and licensing is required for any installers and persons maintaining fire protection systems
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Safety • State Fire Marshal Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$55,190 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Affidavit or referral required.
- 4. Pass required state examinations.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Felony convictions prohibited; Experience: Affidavit or referral required.; Background/Criminal Review: Felony convictions prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Iowa Department of Public Safety~State Fire Marshal Division and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $55,190, Firefighters in Iowa earn 7% below the national median of $59,530. Iowa ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$55,190Hourly estimate
$26.537% below national median
Difference: -$4,340
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#26 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $55,190 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $41,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $47,710 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $79,080 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $48,470 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $61,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $47,520 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Iowa Department of Public Safety • State Fire Marshal Division
Oran Pape Building, 215 East 7th Street, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5157256178
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $51,420 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $73,900 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $37,380 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in Iowa?
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 education do you need to become a Firefighter in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Firefighter licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Iowa is $55,190. Salaries range from $34,970 (10th percentile) to $87,840 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Iowa earn 7% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $55,190.
How many Firefighters work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 2,050 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Firefighters in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Safety / State Fire Marshal Division. Review agency details at http://www.dps.state.ia.us/fm/building/licensing/license.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.