Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NY Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in New York
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in New York, 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 York
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$88,380 median (48% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet New York eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to NYS Department of State~Division of Licensing Services~One Commerce Plaza and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in New York
With a median salary of $88,380, Firefighters in New York earn 48% above the national median of $59,530. New York ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,739Median annual salary
$88,380Hourly estimate
$42.4948% above national median
Difference: +$28,850
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#2 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 York | $88,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $46,130 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $73,110 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $77,660 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New Jersey | $87,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $71,430 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Pennsylvania | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
NYS Department of State • Division of Licensing Services • One Commerce Plaza
99 Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 22001, Albany, NY, 12201
Phone: 5184744429
Related Careers in New York
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $75,330 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $93,050 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $42,680 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $93,610 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in New York?
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 York?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in New York is $88,380. Salaries range from $56,220 (10th percentile) to $105,270 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in New York compare to the national average?
Firefighters in New York earn 48% above the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $88,380.
How many Firefighters work in New York?
New York employs approximately 14,730 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to New York 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 York?
The licensing agency is NYS Department of State / Division of Licensing Services / One Commerce Plaza. Review agency details at https://www.dos.ny.gov/.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in New York?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.