Requirements for Obtaining a Pyrotechnics License in California
Six Steps to Becoming a Professional Licensed Pyrotechnician
1
Apprentice
Work a minimum of 8 public fireworks displays by apprenticing on a professional fireworks display crew for a minimum of 2 years.
2
Letters of Recommendation
Obtain 5 written letters of recommendation from California Pyrotechnic Operators who have been licensed for a year or more.
3
Apply for a License
Apply for a license by sending in your application, letters, and live scan form to the California State Fire Marshall’s office.
4
Background Check
Pass a thorough background check.
5
Take the Written Exam
Take the California State Fire Marshall’s written pyrotechnics exam, which is based on Ch. 6 of the California State Fireworks Laws.
6
You’re all set!
You are now eligible to be in charge of a public fireworks display
Once You Are A Licensed Pyro:
Since the fireworks used in your displays need to make it from the fireworks warehouse to your show site, you need to also obtain a Class C Commercial Driver License with a Hazardous Materials Endorsement. Here are the requirements for obtaining your Class C Commercial Driver License with a Hazardous Materials Endorsement:
Medical Exam
You must receive a driver’s medical exam prior to and every two years thereafter in order to maintain your commercial drivers license.
Threat Assessment
Hazardous Material Endorsements require you to undergo a security threat assessment by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) before the DMV can issue them. This process includes a fee, fingerprinting, and another background check.
DMV Exams
Study and know the California commercial driving laws, and take both the written and behind-the-wheel class C commercial driving test.
Your New Responsibilities
Once your licensed, your level of responsibility skyrockets. Here are some of the differences that set your responsibilities apart from that of the crew.
SAFETY
You are now solely responsible for the safety of your crew and audience.
FIREWORKS DISPLAY
You are now responsible for the successful execution of the fireworks display.
FIREWORKS CREW
You are now responsible for finding a reliable fireworks crew to work for you.
TIME COMMITMENT
Your day no longer begins and ends at the firing site. You now have to coordinate with the production team, which can include the fire inspector, customer, show producer, audio technicians, groundskeepers, etc. This often involves many phone calls, emails, and meetings, in addition to driving the fireworks truck before and after the show.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Responsible for knowing the state and federal fireworks laws like the back of your hand.
HAZMAT DRIVING LAWS
Know and abide by all applicable commercial hazmat driving laws, including the proper use of explosive placards.