Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Out-of-state experience must be documented on company letterhead.
- 6
Must have documented proof of 275 clock hours at a board approved school or an approved daytime trade or vocational school.
- 7
Exam required.
- 8
Continuing education required.
Exam and processing details
- required.
Continuing education and program notes
- required.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of State Examiners of Electricians • Division of Professional Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$73,110 median (23% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Massachusetts eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required required..
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Board of State Examiners of Electricians~Division of Professional Licensure and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of $73,110, Firefighters in Massachusetts earn 23% above the national median of $59,530. Massachusetts ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$73,110Hourly estimate
$35.1523% above national median
Difference: +$13,580
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#9 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $73,110 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $57,030 | Specific course required | No exam required | 18 years |
| Vermont | $46,130 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $88,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $77,660 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $69,480 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Connecticut | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Rhode Island | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Board of State Examiners of Electricians • Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 6177279931
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $78,830 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $78,610 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $44,950 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $135,250 | Degree required | 1-18 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Firefighters.
What education do you need to become a Firefighter in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Firefighter licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Firefighter salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Massachusetts is $73,110. Salaries range from $47,330 (10th percentile) to $98,610 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Massachusetts earn 23% above the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $73,110.
How many Firefighters work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 11,910 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of State Examiners of Electricians / Division of Professional Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/el/.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.