Entry level testing is now administered by the Civil Service Director. Applicants must be at least 18, but not yet 36 years old, in order to take the general knowledge entrance test. Other specific requirements that must be met to be considered eligible for employment include:

Additional Requirements for Employment

• Passing the written entry level exam, physical agility test, and swim test.


• Passing a comprehensive criminal background check including a polygragph test.


• Passing a pre-employment medical and psychological screening.


• At a minimum, hold TCFP basic firefighter and DSHS EMT-B certifications.

Qualifications required to become an EMT are listed here on the Department of State Health Services website.

SB 193 requires drivers nearing stopped emergency vehicles-with lights activated -to either slow down or change lanes.

The law states a driver must. unless otherwise directed by a police officer, either vacate the lane closest to the stopped emergency vehicle if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction or slow down 20 miles per hour below the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph the driver must slow down to 5 mph.)

Emergency vehicles include police, emergency medical service and fire vehicles.

A violation is punishable by a maximum fine of $200. If the violation results in property damage, the maximum fine increases to $500. If the violation results in bodily injury, the offense is enhanced to a Class B misdemeanor.

The new law was passed in the last regular session of the Texas Legislature and went into effect Sept. 1, 2003.

It is the ability to produce a map image that sets GIS apart from other database systems. Perhaps more simply, a GIS gives you tools to answer questions about a location (geographic information). You can combine layers of information stored in a database that may include addresses, aerial photographs, dates, and other numerical values.