The State Bureau of Fire Services is under the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth. The Office of Fire Fighter Training develops the training standards for certification in the state, certifies instructors and sets up regional training centers throughout the state.
The Office of Fire Fighter Training handles training for firefighters. A candidate must be a member of a local fire department prior to training and testing or else a pre-service student, cadet or Boy Scout Explorer at an approved regional college or university.
Coursework falls under two classes, Fire Fighter I and Fire Fighter II. Work includes the basics of firefighting, equipment use, fire science and hazardous materials, with more advanced study for the Fire Fighter II level.
After completing coursework, the student can take the Challenge Exam. Challenge Exams can be taken for either Fire Fighter I level, Fire Fighter II level, or both at the same time. The exams are based upon 100 questions (200 for the combined exam) that account for 70 percent of the grade, and a series of practical skill stations accounting for 30 percent of the grade.
Firefighters who are full members or who are hired by of local fire departments can take the Challenge Exam without having to take the coursework.
Fire cadets or Boy Scout Explorers are not permitted to take the test without taking the coursework first.
Fire officer certification requires additional training and coursework. Candidates must have three years of service and have completed Fire Fighter I and II certification.
Courses in leadership and management for hazardous environments is required. Final testing is a 100-question written test with no practical testing. A score of 70 percent is required to pass.