If you’re looking to become a certified Emergency Vehicle Operator (EVOC) in Florida, you’re probably wondering: how long does the process take?
The answer depends on whether you choose an in-person or hybrid program, how quickly you can complete the requirements, and how long you have to wait for an available class. We’ll break down exactly how long it takes to complete an EVOC program, what to expect during training, and how to get certified as fast as possible.
How Long is EVOC Training?
In-Person EVOC Training
Traditional in-person EVOC programs are structured as two full days of training:
- Day 1: 8 hours of classroom instruction
- Day 2: 8 hours of hands-on driving assessment
These sessions are usually held at fire academies or EMS training centers. While effective, they’re only available a few times per year at some locations, which means you may have to wait months for an open session.
Hybrid EVOC Training
Hybrid programs allow you to complete the classroom portion online at your own pace and only attend the in-person driving training. This reduces the time commitment to just one day:
- Self-paced online learning (equivalent to 8 hours of classroom instruction)
- 1-day driving training (would would be in-person)
Because hybrid programs offer multiple sessions per month, they are often the fastest way to get certified.
How Long Do the Exams Take?
Written Exam Duration
The EVOC written exam is a multiple-choice test and typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on the program’s curriculum.
Driving Assessment Duration
The hands-on driving portion takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the program and the number of students in the session.
What’s Covered?
- Braking Tactics
- Cornering and turning techniques
- Defensive driving maneuvers
- Emergency response scenarios
What’s the Fastest Way to Get Certified?
If you need your EVOC certification as soon as possible, here’s the best approach:
- Choose a Hybrid Program – Since classroom training is online, you can complete it at your own pace and schedule the driving test immediately.
- Look for High-Frequency Sessions – Some programs, like TrainEVOC and The Rescue Company 1, offer frequent classes, allowing you to get certified quickly.
- Register Early – In-person courses at fire academies fill up months in advance, while hybrid programs have more frequent openings.
How Long Does It Take to Receive Your Certification?
One of the biggest benefits of getting EVOC certified in Florida is the same-day certification standard.
Unlike other training programs that take days or weeks to process paperwork, most EVOC providers issue your certification immediately after you pass both exams. This means you can start applying for jobs or meet your employer’s requirements right away.
Do Some Programs Have Wait Times?
Yes. Some in-person EVOC programs—like Broward Fire Academy and College of Central Florida—only offer classes every few months. If you choose one of these, you may have to wait several weeks or even months to find an available session.
Hybrid programs, on the other hand, have frequent openings—often multiple times per month or even biweekly—making them the faster option for most students.