How Do I Become a Pyrotechnician?

In this day and age, entering into the professional field of fireworks is much more complex then in the past. The fireworks industry is heavily regulated by many federal, state, and local agencies.

Here are some items to consider:

• You must be at least 18 years of age, (some states require 21 years of age), to participate on a display fireworks crew.
• You must be at least 21 years old to be a Display Operator in charge.
• You should have a true passion for fireworks.
• You cannot be afraid of hard work.
• Find a reputable fireworks display company, and attend a beginners training class.
• You will be asked to submit to criminal background checks and alcohol and drug testing.
• You will be subject to classroom training as well as hands on training out in the field
• You will be required to work as an apprentice on at least 3 to 6 outdoor fireworks shows and will be observed and evaluated on your performance and safety practices.
• You will work on several shows as an assistant to the Display Operator in charge, once you have gained enough experience and understand all of the regulations, you may then be ready to take on your own show.
• This process could take 1 to 3 years, depending on how many shows you participate on, how quickly you become proficient and the rules of the pyrotechnic company.
• A Display Operator, may also be required to get a CDL (commercial driver license) with a hazmat endorsement which will require classroom training, driver training, more criminal background and drug and alcohol testing.

Many states specifically require a pyrotechnician's license for their state, which require testing as well as an annual fee.

Most pyrotechnicians in the U.S. pursue this field as a second job, and choose to be part of an elite group within the entertainment industry. Less than 3% of the population participate in this activity. Being a Fireworks Display operator gives you the opportunity to travel and be part of the exciting world of fireworks entertainment and earn some extra income at the same time.