Seasonal hiring of wildland firefighters has started in some regions and is right around the corner for most of the nation. As such, questions about the infamous "red card" usually crop up. In a nutshell, here is the basics.

The "red card" is a basic test/cert necessary for all employed as wildland firefighters and some NR LEOs. It is a fitness test. You have to be able to walk/run/march 3 miles in 45 minutes while carrying a 45 lb pack. While not excessively difficult, it is far harder than it sounds. Depending on where they decide to hold the test, topography, footing, and weather can all play a factor. There is no official modifier for external factors. 3 miles, 45 minutes. That is the test.

Applicants for NR LEO positions often ask if getting their red card gives them a leg up when it comes to hiring. My opinion as an outsider is Not Directly, But it Can't Hurt. Having your card doesn't really save the agency that much, but it can be a measurement of overall fitness, motivation, and who has done their homework. That WILL reflect well on a candidate.