To register, log in to OSFM 24, select Qualification Test Registration under your Personal Records tile, verify your contact information, choose an available date, time, and location from the schedule, select your desired qualification test, submit your registration, and review your status in the Registrations List at the top of the page.
Two sessions will be offered:
- Session 1 - 10am: Written testing begins at 10:00 am, with practical skills testing starting at 1:00 pm.
- Session 2 - 1pm: Written testing begins at 1:00 pm, with practical skills testing starting at 3:00 pm. (or earlier as candidates complete the written test and enter the practical skills queue)
Effective January 1, 2026: All registration for Firefighter Qualification (Previously referred to as Q School) and Written Test Qualification will be found in OSFM 24 under the "Qualification Test Registration" link on the personal records tile. Candidates will select their own qualification test date and time. Seats will be available until all seats in a session are full. Candidates may register for 1 (one) test per session. Once a session is full, a waitlist will be generated for that session. Candidates who are waitlisted for a session may still submit a registration for another open session. Candidates will receive a schedule reminder email at the 15 day out mark with more information. For more information, visit https://www.ncosfm.gov/fire-rescue/training-certification/qualifications/qualification-testing.
Who this is for: Candidates seeking Firefighter Instructor Qualification. Firefighter Qualification requires both a written test and hands-on practical skills testing.
What to expect:
- Written testing and hands-on practical skills testing
- Practical skills administered after successful completion of the written test
- Required equipment and materials will be outlined in your confirmation email
Important notes:
- Only the Firefighter qualification test is offered at these sessions
- Candidates must pass both the written and practical components to qualify
Prerequisites
- Firefighter II certified for three (3) years
- Instructor Level I certified
- Completion of Instructor Indoctrination
Testing
- Written test: 100 questions, 80% required to pass
- Practical skills testing: Conducted after the written test
- Skills selected at random
- Performance Practical: 70% minimum
- Evaluation Practical: 100% required
Required Equipment
- NFPA-approved full structural firefighting gear
- NFPA-approved SCBA with spare cylinder (current hydro)
- SCBA facepiece
Reference Text
Fundamentals of Fire Fighter Skills and Hazardous Materials Response (4th ed.)