Basic requirements to become a Pennsylvania firefighter. Despite specifics with slight differences among local fire departments, the following criteria are universal requirements that qualify new hires. • 18 years of age or older. • High school diploma or GED.he Pennsylvania Office of the State Fire Commissioner oversees all firefighter certification and training and the State Fire Academy is the state administering agency for firefighters. For more information on the State Fire Academy’s program, Contact. Office of the State Fire Commissioner.