Members of the California Prescribed Fire Council may be eligible to receive an NWCG Incident Qualification Card (Red Card) through our Training & Qualification Program. We help members document training, verify experience, review qualifications, and process Red Card requests in accordance with current NWCG standards for approved positions.




The California Prescribed Fire Council supports qualified fire practitioners by assisting with the issuance of Incident Qualification Cards (Red Cards) in accordance with current incident qualification standards. Our program helps ensure members are properly documented, reviewed, and qualified for incident and prescribed fire assignments through a standardized qualification process.

The California Prescribed Fire Council provides Incident Qualification Card (Red Card) issuance and management services to qualified members. Follow the steps below to begin the process.
1. Verify Your Membership
Applicants must be current California Prescribed Fire Council members in good standing.
2. Gather Your Documentation
Prepare copies of your training certificates, Position Task Books (PTBs), qualification records, Work Capacity Test (WCT) documentation, and any other supporting materials.
3. Obtain a Professional Headshot
Submit a recent professional headshot for inclusion on your Incident Qualification Card. Photos should clearly show your face, have a neutral background when possible, and be similar in style to an identification or passport photo.
4. Submit a Red Card Request
Complete the online Red Card Request Form and upload all required documentation and your professional headshot for review.
5. Qualification Review
Our Training & Qualifications Team will review your training, experience, fitness, qualifications, and supporting documentation to verify eligibility.
6. Receive Your Red Card
Once approved, you will receive a digital Incident Qualification Card displaying your photo, current qualifications, and qualification expiration dates.
7. Share Your Verification Link
Each Red Card includes a unique online verification link that allows agencies, cooperators, landowners, contractors, and incident management personnel to verify your qualifications, training, certifications, and documented experience.
Ready to Get Started?
Submit your Red Card Request today and maintain a verified record of your qualifications, training, and experience through the California Prescribed Fire Council.
All training used for qualification or Task Book initiation must be completed through certified training providers operating under a current MOU or recognition agreement with NWCG or State Fire Training (SFT).
Help develop the next generation of fire practitioners by mentoring trainees, evaluating performance, and supporting NWCG qualification standards.