Frequently Asked Questions

When can I expect to receive my certificate after the testing process?

Certificates are processed in the order they are received. Generally you can expect to receive your certificate within 30 days. During high volume times (e.g., December, January, February, May and June) it may take up to 60 days. When completed, certificates are then mailed to the Technical College and forwarded to you or your Fire Department (based on the technical college standard procedure).

How do I get a replacement certificate?

To replace lost or destroyed certificate(s), email a replacement request specifying which replacement certificate(s) you are requesting to fireservice@wtcsystem.edu.

Requests must include your name at time of certificate(s) issue, certification number (if known), return address and a phone number where you can be reached during the day.

Can certification be issued if out-of-state certificates are not accredited?

Individuals may be granted “Advanced Standing” through recognition of equivalent training from another state or agency. Individuals granted Advanced Standing will be allowed a one-time challenge of both the written and practical examinations for the requested certification level(s). All challenges must begin at the lowest pre-requisite level and testing must be successfully completed sequentially to the certification level requested.

How is a Fire and Emergency Services Instructor I certification renewed?

Documentation of 220 hours of instruction or instruction and continuing education over the 5-year certification period must be submitted to the local technical college fire coordinator prior to the fifth year certification renewal date.  Refer to the WTCS FSEO Policy and Procedures Manual for more information.

What needs to be done if a Fire and Emergency Services Instructor certification is not renewed before the fifth year certification renewal date?

1)  If a Fire and Emergency Services Instructor certification expires by up to 1 year, the Fire and Emergency Services Instructor must retake and pass the Fire and Emergency Services Instructor Certification written examination and provide the documentation to satisfy the Certificate Renewal requirement in the WTCS FSEO Policy and Procedures Manual (220 hours over a 5-year period). If the individual is unable to pass the written examination after one (1) attempt, that individual will be required to follow Step 2.

2) If a Fire and Emergency Services Instructor Certification expires by more than 1 year or the individual fails the written examination required in Step 1, the individual must retake the Fire and Emergency Services Instructor Course and; pass the written and practical requirements.

Recertification documentation shall be submitted to the local WTCS District Fire Coordinator for verification of recertification compliance. The District Fire Coordinator shall then forward the State Summary Form to the WTCS FSEO.