Question 1

I am interested in joining, how do I apply?

Accepted Answer

Thank you for your interest in the Florida State Guard (FSG) recruitment process. The Florida State Guard is always accepting applications; however, due to limited positions, the process is highly competitive.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the basic eligibility requirements, preferred qualifications, and frequently asked questions below. All applications are reviewed, and agency staff will be in touch if you have applied previously or following your application. Applications are accepted at this link.

With a heritage dating back to WWII, the FSG was reactivated in 2022 as a state-supported volunteer force providing rapid response humanitarian aid during natural and manmade disasters.

The FSG is committed to serving Florida families in times of need—anytime, anywhere. Our all-volunteer force participates in an initial entry training program, quarterly drill periods, and annual training to develop and reinforce the skills necessary to sustain year-round ground, maritime, and aviation emergency response capabilities. Courses of instruction focus on basic medical care, route clearance, search and rescue, land navigation, wildfire management, and other emergency response skills.

Question 2

What are the basic eligibility requirements?

Accepted Answer

All Soldiers must meet the following requirements and guidelines:  
Be a US citizen and Florida resident.  
Be between the ages of 18 and 60.  
During in-processing at Initial Entry Training (IET), applicants are required to complete and pass a full-panel urinalysis drug screening, undergo a basic physical examination, and a background check
Be in general good health with no debilitating or hindering pre-existing medical conditions. Members of the Florida State Guard are often called to execute missions and training in austere environments. Applicants should be prepared to participate in rigorous physical activity and training.
Adhere to all other requirements and guidelines as provided by FSG authorities. 
Applicants cannot be currently serving in the military, as dual service obligations could create conflicts during times of activation or emergency response.

Question 3

I previously submitted an application, do I have to reapply?

Accepted Answer

If you applied prior to January 2026, you must reapply. All applications are reviewed and processed by an FSG agency staff member, with selection determined by the limited number of available positions.

Question 4

How can I ensure my application is competitive?

Accepted Answer

Due to the limited number of positions available, the application and selection process is highly competitive. To submit a strong application, all prospective applicants are encouraged to review the preferred qualifications below:

Be between the ages of 18-40. 
Professional experience and/or industry-recognized certifications in law enforcement, emergency response, emergency management, first response, aviation operations, maritime operations, and public safety. 
Bilingual.

Question 5

What leave benefits do I have as a State of Florida employee?

Accepted Answer

FSG volunteers who are State of Florida employees are eligible to receive up to 240 hours of administrative leave for training and activations.  State of Florida employees should contact their respective agency's Human Resources Department for more information. Florida Department of Management Services Division of State Human Resource Management Advisory #2026_001

Question 6

Does a VA disability preclude someone from service?

Accepted Answer

VA disability does not automatically disqualify anyone from membership with the FSG. However, all members are expected to meet physical fitness standards and perform physically demanding tasks. Each disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Question 7

If I receive a deferral, can I reapply?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have been deferred in the past, you can reapply.

Question 8

Can I keep my rank if I come from another State Guard/State Defense Force?

Accepted Answer

Roles, responsibilities and ranks provided by another state defense force, military branch, law enforcement agency, or comparable emergency response entity will not automatically transfer to the FSG. However, please include these experiences in your personnel documents to submit a competitive application.

Question 9

Can I consume marijuana, THC, cannabis, and any other marijuana-related substances if I have a prescription?

Accepted Answer

The FSG has a zero-tolerance policy for illicit drug use, to include recreational and medicinal marijuana use. All prospective, current, and active members must clear initial, and continued, background checks and full-panel urinalysis drug screenings. Testing positive for drug use, may result in the termination of your membership with the FSG.

Question 10

What type of training will be conducted at IET?

Accepted Answer

During IET, you will participate in rigorous training focused on disaster and emergency preparation and response. Training activities will include basic medical, survival, and rescue courses along with daily physical fitness. Following the successful completion of all training requirements, you will have the fortitude, resilience, and experience necessary to serve the people of Florida in times of need.

Question 11

What will I need to pack for IET?

Accepted Answer

We are always prepared, and we will make sure you are too. Prior to attending IET, you will receive an official packing list. All other necessary equipment will be issued to you at IET.

Question 12

Where is IET?

Accepted Answer

IET is hosted at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center in Starke, Florida approximately an hour from Jacksonville, Florida.

Question 13

How long is IET?

Accepted Answer

During the immersive three-week training regimen, all recruits will eat, sleep, and train at Camp Blanding throughout the entire duration of training.

Question 14

How can I prepare for IET?

Accepted Answer

To prepare, we encourage you to begin or continue a routine physical fitness regimen. For helpful exercises, please refer to the resources listed below:

Holistic Health and Fitness Drills and Exercises (2020)
Army Combat Fitness Test Overview
Holistic Health and Fitness Handbook

Question 15

How often is routine training?

Accepted Answer

Members of the Florida State Guard train on a quarterly basis (once every three months). In addition to quarterly training, units conduct an annual training, typically encompassing a two-week timeframe.

Question 16

Where is routine training?

Accepted Answer

Currently routine training and drill periods are held at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center. However, all members must remain flexible to adjust for potential alternative training locations.

Question 17

What happens if I am injured during training or active service?

Accepted Answer

Pursuant to F.S. 251.001(8)(c), if you are injured during training or active service, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. If you are injured during training or active service, you must notify your chain of command immediately.

Question 18

Can I skip IET if I come from another State Guard?

Accepted Answer

All members of the FSG must successfully complete the IET program offered by the FSG. While training courses and certificates from other state defense forces may provide an advantage during promotion evaluations, they will not be accepted as a substitute for FSG training.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS