NWCG FFT1/FFT2

No. These are position qualifications, not test-based certifications. You complete a position task book by demonstrating each required task to a qualified evaluator, usually on incidents or in approved training exercises. Prerequisite courses such as basic wildland firefighting training and annual refresher requirements still apply, so check the current PMS 310-1 and your agency's training office for the exact course list.

There is no fixed timeline. Completion depends on how many assignments you get and how consistently an evaluator can observe you. Some firefighters finish in a season; others take longer if fire activity is slow. NWCG and your agency set currency and time limits for task book completion, so confirm the current rule with your training officer rather than relying on secondhand numbers.

A task that is not performed to standard is simply not initialed; you get more practice and are re-evaluated later. This is a coaching model, not a pass/fail exam. Persistent gaps usually mean more mentored repetitions or additional training. Ask the evaluator for specific, observable feedback on what standard was missed, and document the remediation with your supervisor.

The tasks are not intellectually difficult, but they must be performed correctly under pressure. Common shortfalls include weak radio discipline, incomplete size-ups, sloppy LCES briefings, poor tool technique, and mop-up that leaves heat. Candidates also lose time on documentation: unsigned tasks, missing dates, or evaluations not tied to observed performance. Treat the task book as a live record and review it after every assignment.

Start with safety fundamentals: LCES, the watch-out situations, entrapment avoidance, and shelter deployment, because evaluators expect these to be flawless. Then build fire behavior and fuels knowledge, followed by line construction and mop-up, tools and water handling, communications, and ICS. Add WUI awareness for FFT1, then aviation and heavy equipment safety. Finish by rehearsing documentation and the position performance evaluation with your mentor.

Generally yes. FFT1 builds on FFT2 and typically requires you to hold the lower qualification first, along with the associated training and experience. The precise prerequisites, including any required experience or course completions, are set in the current NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications and by your agency. Verify with your training officer before starting the FFT1 task book.

Currency is maintained through refresher training, work capacity testing where required, and periodic position performance or re-evaluation. Requirements differ by agency and are revised periodically. Check the current NWCG standards and your agency's policy for the specific intervals and refresher courses, and keep copies of your task book and training records so your qualification can be verified.

The National Wildland Coordinating Group publishes the Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications (PMS 310-1) and related guides on its website, nwcg.gov. Your agency or unit training officer can confirm local prerequisites, evaluator qualifications, and currency rules. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NWCG; always rely on the official publications for binding requirements.

Yes, in many cases. Simulated exercises, training burns, and mentored drill sessions can support task completion when approved by your evaluator and allowed by agency policy. The key is that a qualified evaluator directly observes you meeting the stated standard. Confirm which tasks your agency permits to be signed off in training versus requiring incident experience.