Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Community Affairs • Office of Inspector Licensing • Bureau of Code Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$87,660 median (47% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet New Jersey eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Community Affairs~Office of Inspector Licensing~Bureau of Code Services and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in New Jersey
With a median salary of $87,660, Firefighters in New Jersey earn 47% above the national median of $59,530. New Jersey ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,565Median annual salary
$87,660Hourly estimate
$42.1447% above national median
Difference: +$28,130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $87,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| New York | $88,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $71,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $48,060 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Delaware | 54 | 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
Department of Community Affairs • Office of Inspector Licensing • Bureau of Code Services
PO Box 816, Trenton, NJ, 8625
Phone: 6099847834
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $90,150 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $89,030 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $38,720 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $86,550 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in New Jersey?
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 is the typical Firefighter salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in New Jersey is $87,660. Salaries range from $47,090 (10th percentile) to $124,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Firefighters in New Jersey earn 47% above the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $87,660.
How many Firefighters work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 6,590 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Community Affairs / Office of Inspector Licensing / Bureau of Code Services. Review agency details at http://www.state.nj.us/dca/divisions/codes/offices/licensing_cont_ed.html.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in New Jersey?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.