DFS Licensing

The Department of Fire Services gives exams for licenses and certifications.

Licensing Topic Areas

Licensing Exam Guidelines

Review these licensing guidelines before you submit an application or take an exam. The guidelines answer questions about:

  • License applications
  • Fees
  • Test preparation
  • Cheating
  • Re-taking exams
  • Testing responsibilities

License Exam Schedules

Exams
Exam Dates
Application Deadlines

Fire Suppression and
Commercial Hood Cleaning

January 18, 2023

March 15, 2023

May 17, 2023

July 12, 2023

September 13, 2023

November 15, 2023

December 23, 2022

February 17, 2023

April 21, 2023

June 16, 2023

August 18, 2023

October 20, 2023

 

Exams
Exam Dates
Application Deadlines

Cannon/Mortar, Fireworks,
Special Effects, Blasting,
and Blasting R & D

February 15, 2023

April 19, 2023

June 14, 2023

August 16, 2023

October 18, 2023

January 20, 2023

March 24, 2023

May 19, 2023

July 21, 2023

September 22, 2023

 

Licensing Exam Study Materials

DFS provides study materials for licensing exams. Download and study the materials for any exam you plan to take. 

Additional Resources for

Licensing Exam Information

  • You must be pre-registered for all license exams. 
  • We must receive your complete current application by 5:00 p.m. on the deadline date listed above. If we get your application after the deadline, you cannot take the exam. 
  • No photocopies of applications will be accepted. 
  • You can take exams at: 1 State Road in Stow (park in the remote lot at the top of the hill); and 100 Grochmal Avenue in Springfield. Directions are available at www.mass.gov/dfs.
  • Questions? Contact the Licensing Desk at 978-567-3700 or by email at dfs.licensing@state.ma.us.
  • For questions on Boiler and Pressure Vessel licenses, contact: (978) 567-3780.

Penalties for Working After a License is Suspended or Revoked

Amendments to 527 CMR 1.00, effective May 15, 2020. On May 15, 2020, penalties took effect for performing work that requires a license after it has been suspended or revoked, and for unlicensed individuals who falsely represent themselves as licensed to perform work regulated by the State Fire Code. Additional changes hold companies responsible for knowingly allowing their employees to falsely represent themselves as valid license holders.

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