-Begins with applying online at www.hfdcareers.org -Requires proof of at least 24 College Credits, or at least 2 years of active, US military service. -Take the Physical Abilities Test: 1.5 miles in 13:07, and other basic strength/endurance portions. -Take the Civil Service Exam: A written test based on personality/basic math/spatial awareness A one on one "interview" with a recruiter: Nothing hard at all. Just to get a feel for why you want to join the Houston Fire Department and to answer any questions you may have. -Polygraph Examination -Background check, Drug Testing, Uniform Fitting, Fingerprints, Necessary Immunizations, Medical Exam

The process was pretty lengthy. The civil service exam has to be taken first. The highest-ranked scores were called in for an in-person interview. After the interview, you were scheduled for a drug and polygraph test. Upon passing those you were offered employment which meant the fire academy. You are considered probationary for 12 months.