OAR 259-009-0063: Credit for Experience

(1) A fire service professional with three years experience in a fire department may apply to be evaluated for certification based upon experience and accumulated knowledge. (2) A fire service professional may petition for credit for prior learning. The individual must describe in writing all experience and training pertinent to the standard being challenged. The material presented will be reviewed by a panel of three fire service professionals, appointed by the Department or designated staff. The fire service professionals will determine what credit, if any, should be granted to the individual. (3) Applicants may take a competency examination, if available. Applicants who fail examinations for any specific requirement will not be re-examined for a period of 60 days. Applicants who fail examinations for specific requirements may, after a 60 day interim period, apply to the Department to be re-examined by written or oral examination. Oral examinations will be conducted by a representative of the Department. (4) The Department may enter into a learning contract with a fire service professional for any standards that are needed. Upon successful completion of the contract, the individual will be granted credit for the job performance requirements. The contract must be in writing and signed by the Director or designated representative and the individual seeking credit. The contract will include a course of study, an evaluation process and a completion date. (5) The Department or its designated representative will notify the applicant of the results of the evaluation within 60 days. (6) The Department or its designated representative may grant certification to the applicant when the evaluation indicates the applicant's experience and knowledge exceed the minimum established standards (Note: See also OAR 259-009-0020).