Fact check
How long does an F-80 certificate last?
An F-80 certificate lasts up to three years from the day it is issued. It covers you only at the shelter it was issued for, and you can hold it for at most two shelters at once without a variance. Keeping it after three years is a separate step, covered on the F-80 renewal page.
Plan ref 5.5Updated October 25, 2026
How long the F-80 lasts
3 yearsat most
F-80 Certificates of Fitness are valid for no more than three years from the date of issue. At the end of that period, the certificate expires unless the FDNY approves its renewal.
Source: FDNY F-80 Notice of Exam and Study Material, p. 15 · checked October 25, 2026
One person, one place
The F-80 is premise-related. The FDNY says it is valid only at a specific location and for the specific person it was issued to Source: NYC Business F-80 page. Each shelter location needs its own F-80 verification letter and F-80 application Source: Study Material p. 5.
You can be certified for two shelter locations at the same time. A third location needs a variance, which you request from the FDNY Source: Study Material p. 5.
During every shift, your original Certificate of Fitness card must be available for FDNY inspection Source: Study Material p. 15. The rule names the original card.
The shelter fire safety coordinator path explains the job this card goes with, from the first course to the first shift.
Three years on one card
- Test day
Card issued
If you pass and all requirements are met, you get the certificate the same day Source: FDNY General Notice of Exam.
- Every shift
Original card on hand
Available for FDNY inspection while you work Source: Study Material p. 15.
- 90 days before expiry
Renewal Notice
The FDNY sends a notice with your certificate number, expiration date and renewal fee Source: NYC Business F-80 page.
- Expiration date
Up to three years after issue
The certificate expires unless it is renewed.
- 91 days to 1 year late
Late renewal
Allowed with a $25 late penalty on top of the $15 renewal fee, as of October 2026 Source: FDNY General Notice of Exam.
- Over 1 year late
Start over
No renewal. You apply and take a new test Source: FDNY General Notice of Exam.
Renewal is not automatic
Renewal is at the commissioner’s discretion. The FDNY may review your qualifications and ask for continuing education or other proof that you still qualify Source: Study Material p. 15. NYC Business adds that the FDNY may ask for a re-examination when you renew Source: NYC Business F-80 page. For the F-80, the Study Material lists no special renewal requirements beyond the general ones Source: Study Material p. 7.
Key takeaways
- Valid for up to three years from the date of issue.
- Valid only for you, at the shelter it names; two shelters at most without a variance.
- Keep the original card available for inspection during every shift.
- Renew within one year of expiry, or apply and test again.
Our app for iPhone and iPad
F-80 is on the App Store. Android and desktop readers can use the free practice on this site instead.