Firefighter Requirements

When others run from danger, will you run toward it?

Becoming a firefighter with us means pushing your limits, proving your strength, and showing your commitment and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

To earn your place on the team, you’ll need to pass a series of fitness, practical, and written tests designed to challenge and prepare you for real-life situations. But it doesn’t stop there maintaining physical fitness is part of the job. That’s why you’ll have your fitness assessed every year, ensuring you’re always ready to respond when it matters most.

👉Take our quiz to find out if you’re the right fit!

From Fitness to Focus: How We Assess You

Every applicant will face a series of tests designed to push your limits and prove your potential starting with a Maths and English aptitude test. Think you’ve got what it takes? Try our practice test and see how you measure up:
👉 Maths and English Practice Test

But that’s just the beginning…

Get ready to show your strength, stamina, and skill through a series of challenges:

  • 🏃‍♂️ 20m Bleep Test – Hit level 8.8 to pass!
  • 🏋️‍♀️ 35kg Overhead Press – One lift.
  • 💪 60kg Single Rope Lateral Pulldown – One rep.
  • 🔁 28kg Pulldown Challenge – 23 reps in 60 seconds!
  • 🪜 Ladder Climb with Leg Lock – Show your agility and control.
  • 🕳️ Confined Space Crawl – Navigate tight spaces.
  • 🔧 Equipment Assembly – Precision under pressure.
  • 🚚 Equipment Carry – Strength meets endurance.

Psychometric tests – Wholetime only

To help us get to know you better, all wholetime firefighter applicants will complete an online assessment. It’s designed to show how you approach challenges and adapt to change, giving us a fair and objective view of your strengths.

Fitness, Aptitude & Practical Tests

Now working in partnership with Get Fit For Duty.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue is proud to partner with Get Fit For Duty, a specialist program designed to support both current operational firefighters and aspiring recruits.

Through this partnership, individuals will have access to expert strength and conditioning (S&C) training plans and educational resources tailored to help them meet the national firefighter physical fitness standards. Whether you’re preparing for your fitness assessment or maintaining operational readiness, Get Fit For Duty provides the tools and guidance to help you succeed.

Curious about Aptitude Day? Check out our handy guide here!

If you have any questions regarding firefighter requirements, please contact our Recruitment Team via email – sfrs.recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk