Overview
The Fire Prevention Officer Credential is issued by the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal to acknowledge the professional development of fire prevention officers. This credential provides recognition of career excellence and achievement and encourages continued personal and professional development during a consecutive 36-month period. This includes remaining current and active with organizations, committees, and certifications in order to maintain a high level of technical knowledge and awareness.
The Fire Prevention Officer Credential is not intended to set standards or qualifications for an individual to hold the designation of Fire Prevention Officer. It is not a certification, and it is not equivalent to Pro Board certification to the level of Fire Inspector II set forth by NFPA 1030.
For New Fire Prevention Officer Credential Seekers
Personnel who do not currently hold a Fire Prevention Officer credential can obtain one by completing the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy's Fire Prevention Officer Credential course. Login to the Learning Management System and search for Activity Code FPO to register.
This course is for Fire Prevention Officers who are actively working in the field and want to establish an in-depth understanding of fire inspection related issues. The topics covered include Inspection Procedures, Construction, Types and Occupancy Classifications, Means of Egress, Water Supply Distribution Systems, Plans Review, and the Hazardous Materials Process Permitting. Students will participate in in-depth discussions consisting of the review and specification of plans for construction, fire and life safety protection, and the interpretation of applicable Massachusetts Codes and Standards. This course consists of 35 hours of classroom training and 45 hours of homework.
For Those Seeking Re-Credentialing as a Fire Prevention Officer
Personnel who are currently hold a Fire Prevention Officer Credential can maintain that credential through the new online re-credentialing process. This process replaces all former re-credentialing options. Please note:
- If you choose to retake the Fire Prevention Officer Credential course, the hours awarded for the class can be included in your re-credential application but the course will NOT re-credential you with a new expiration date.
- Candidates wishing to maintain the Fire Prevention Officer Credential will be required to accumulate 60 hours of approved attendance/activities in a consecutive 36-month period that begins on the date of issuance of the Fire Prevention Officer Credential or last recredential.
- All credentials expire on December 31st of their expiring year.
- Re-credential applications can only be submitted within your expiration year.
Complete the Fire Prevention Officer Re-Credential Application here.
View the Approved Trainings List (Updated November 2026) here.
Expired Fire Prevention Officer - Level 2 Credentials
In the event a previously credentialed individual fails to acquire the minimum hours in the consecutive 36-month period, the Fire Prevention Officer Credential shall become void and expired.
Personnel who wish to have an expired Fire Prevention Officer Credential reinstated will be required to meet the current minimum standards for re-credentialing. This will require accumulating the required 60 hours of approved attendance or activities within 36 months of the date of the submitted application.
Credit will only be awarded for each of the categories if achieved during the consecutive 36-month period dated back from application submission date and cannot exceed the max hours awarded per category as listed in the application.