Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KS Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Kansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Kansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Choice of state or third-party examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Firefighter in Kansas
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
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Choice of state or third-party exam
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Investigations • Kansas State Fire Marshal Office
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$44,060 median (26% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Kansas 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: Choice of state or third-party exam.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 6. Submit the application to Investigations~Kansas State Fire Marshal Office and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Kansas
With a median salary of $44,060, Firefighters in Kansas earn 26% below the national median of $59,530. Kansas ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,169Median annual salary
$44,060Hourly estimate
$21.1826% below national median
Difference: -$15,470
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | $44,060 | Specific course required | Choice of state or third-party exam | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $61,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $48,470 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $47,270 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Colorado | $76,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 4 years |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Colorado | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is 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
Investigations • Kansas State Fire Marshal Office
800 SW Jackson, Suite 104, Topeka, KS, 66612
Phone: 7852963401
Related Careers in Kansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $46,080 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $56,610 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $36,090 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in Kansas?
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 Kansas?
Kansas lists Choice of state or third-party exam as part of the licensure process for Firefighters.
What education do you need to become a Firefighter in Kansas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Firefighter licensure in Kansas.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in Kansas?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Kansas is $44,060. Salaries range from $31,030 (10th percentile) to $76,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Kansas compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Kansas earn 26% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $44,060.
How many Firefighters work in Kansas?
Kansas employs approximately 3,630 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to Kansas 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 Kansas?
The licensing agency is Investigations / Kansas State Fire Marshal Office. Review agency details at https://www.firemarshal.ks.gov/.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Kansas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.