Basic Assessor Certification Course
Training for Fire Service Promotional Assessment Centers
Preparing Qualified Promotional Assessors
The Basic Assessor Certification Course (BACC) prepares experienced fire service professionals to participate in assessment centers used during firefighter promotional processes.
The Illinois Fire Department Promotion Act, enacted in 2003, established requirements affecting fire service promotional testing. Since January 1, 2010, individuals employed to grade candidates in applicable promotional assessment centers must meet the certification requirements approved under Illinois law.
Important distinction: These assessor certification requirements do not apply to individuals employed or appointed by the jurisdiction administering the examination. Department personnel and fire commissioners who oversee the testing process are not required to hold assessor certification solely for that oversight role.
Upcoming Class Offering
March 8–10, 2027
Plainfield Fire Protection District
Course Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Program Duration: 24 instructional hours
Visit the IFCA training calendar for additional information and registration updates.
Assessor Certification Eligibility
Experience Required for Certification
To become a certified assessor, an individual must have at least 10 years of service as a full-time sworn firefighter, including at least three years of service as a company officer or higher.
Individuals who do not yet meet the experience requirement may attend the training course; however, attendance alone does not qualify an individual for certification.
Certification Checklist
Applicants seeking certification through the Joint Labor and Management Committee (JLMC) must complete the following:
- Document at least 10 years of full-time sworn firefighter service, including three years at the company officer level or higher.
- Successfully complete a JLMC-approved Basic Assessor Training Course.
- Participate in two assessment centers as a non-grading assessor within one year after completing the course, satisfying the JLMC practical requirements.
- Sign a pledge agreeing to comply with the Code of Ethics for Illinois Assessors.
About the Basic Assessor Course
The 24-hour Basic Assessor Certification Course combines classroom instruction with practical training based on the JLMC-approved syllabus and Assessor Job Performance Requirements.
Participants will become familiar with the exercises commonly used in fire service promotional assessment centers. Small-group practical activities allow students to gain experience evaluating assessment exercises and develop the skills necessary to serve as assessors.
What Attendees Need to Know
Bring a Laptop: All coursework is provided electronically, and each participant must bring their own laptop computer.
Meals & Lodging: Attendees are responsible for their own meals and accommodations during the three-day program.
Certification: Successful completion of the course is one component of certification. Candidates must also satisfy the experience, practical assessment, and ethics requirements established by the JLMC.
Official Assessor Certification Requirements
Additional information regarding certification and recertification requirements can be found in Illinois Administrative Code, Title 41, Part 145.
