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Fire Department

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1. What are DeSoto's hiring requirements?

Must be between 21 - 35 years of age at the time of appointment as a firefighter.

Must be a United States citizen.

Must have a copy of High School Diploma or G.E.D.

Must provide proof of certification as a basic Firefighter, as established by Texas Commission on Fire Protection, and must be fully certified with the Texas Department of State Health Services or National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians as an Emergency Medical Technician Basic OR provide proof of certification as a Paramedic (must provide a Paramedic Certificate issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services or National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians) prior to entrance examination.

Must possess a valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

Must meet all physical requirements.

2. How can I be notified of the next testing date?

DeSoto Fire rescue generally tests every six months or until the current list has expired. You may sign up to be notified of the next civil service exam using the Notify Me Page. Notify Me Page

3. How do you study for the test?

DeSoto Fire Rescue administers a test covering your basic Math and Reading Skills. We suggest that you study as if you were taking a College Entrance Exam. No study guide is available. Check with your local library for practice tests or other study material.

4. What is the procedure after I take the Civil Service test?

Candidates who pass the written exam will be subject to successful completion of the following:
Driver analysis
Background investigation
Physical agility test
Psychological evaluation
Polygraph test
Oral review board
Medical exam including drug testing
Any other relevant investigations deemed necessary.

Applicants will need to be prepared to stay all day. After the examination and a break, if weather permits, the physical agility test (PAT) will be administered to some/all of applicants passing the written examination.

If time and weather do not permit giving the PAT to the applicants who pass the civil service examination, another date and time will be set and the applicants notified.
Individuals with disabilities who will need reasonable accommodation in order to complete a test must contact the Civil Service Director at 972.230.9639 prior to the scheduled test date. Documentation supporting the need for accommodation will be required.

The City of DeSoto does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services.

5. Are you paid while attending the Fire Academy?

If you are attending as a civilian (not hired by DeSoto Fire Rescue), no you are not paid.