Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Public Safety
Firefighter Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for firefighter in Ohio, 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 Ohio
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
Please refer to the licensing authority or the Ohio Career Information System (OCIS) at (800) 700-6247 for more information on license requirements.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio Department of Public Safety • Division of Emergency Medical Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$59,470 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Ohio eligibility requirements for Firefighter licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Ohio Department of Public Safety~Division of Emergency Medical Services and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Ohio
With a median salary of $59,470, Firefighters in Ohio earn 0% below the national median of $59,530. Ohio ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,256Median annual salary
$59,470Hourly estimate
$28.590% above national median
Difference: -$60
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFirefighter Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $59,470 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Michigan | $55,570 | Specific course required | No exam required | 1 month |
| Pennsylvania | $71,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $41,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 18 years |
| Kentucky | $37,140 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $61,470 | No educational requirements | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 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
Ohio Department of Public Safety • Division of Emergency Medical Services
1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH, 43223
Phone: 6144669447
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $58,840 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Police Officer | $77,050 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $36,180 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Firefighter in Ohio?
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 Ohio?
The median annual salary for Firefighters in Ohio is $59,470. Salaries range from $35,420 (10th percentile) to $87,160 (90th percentile).
How does the Firefighter salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Firefighters in Ohio earn 0% below the national median of $59,530, with a state median of $59,470.
How many Firefighters work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 18,750 Firefighters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Firefighter license to Ohio 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio Department of Public Safety / Division of Emergency Medical Services. Review agency details at https://www.ems.ohio.gov/.
How often do you renew a Firefighter license in Ohio?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.