Apply to Become an Orlando Fire Department Explorer

Do you want to join the Orlando Fire Department's job-shadowing program?

The Orlando Fire Department offers teens and youth ages 14-20 the opportunity to participate in training and ride-alongs with firefighters while exploring a career in firefighting. The OFD Explorer Program instills discipline, communication skills, teamwork and confidence in a fun environment.

Online

Step 1.Check your eligibility

To become an OFD Explorer, you must:

  • Be age 14-19. Since Explorers age out of the program at 21, you can't apply after your 20th birthday.
  • Be a student enrolled in or entering high school, college or vocational school.
  • Have a 2.0 GPA or higher.
  • Be available for a meeting every other Tuesday night from 7-9 p.m., as well as for occasional weekend training sessions and community events.
  • Have a good attitude.
  • Pay a membership fee, $2 in dues for every meeting, and provide black pants, shoes, socks and belt for your uniform.

Step 2.Pre-register for the next Open Enrollment meeting

We are at capacity and are not accepting new Explorers at this time. Our next Open Enrollment will be scheduled for a date to be determined in 2023. If you would like to be notified when our next Open Enrollment is scheduled, please complete the Pre-Registration form below.

Click here(PDF, 377KB) for more information.

Pre-Register Here

Step 3.Start attending meetings

If you are qualified to join, you can start attending meetings after open enrollment.