Certificate of Fitness for Special Effects (E-series)
Certificate of Fitness for Special Effects (E-series): E-01, E-02, E-03, E-04, E-05, and E-06.
The E-01 formerly known as the E-18, is the SPFX for Film Certificate of Fitness. This Certificate allows the holder to perform high level special effects for filming purposes, television, and movies. This Certificate of Fitness holder must be familiar with the Film fire Safety plan and work closely with the Film Site Safety Certificate of Fitness holder to ensure safe production locations. Apprentice: E-03.
The E-02 formerly known as E-18, Class A Certificate of Fitness. Pyrotechnician in charge of special effects. This Certificate allows the holder to supervise and perform all high-level special effects conducted by all Special Effect Certificate holders. This certificate can cover indoor and outdoor SPFX including concerts and festivals. Apprentice: E-04.
The E-03 Apprentice SPFX for Film, formerly known as E-19, Class B. This Certificate allows the holder to conduct low level effects such as candles, lighters, and matches.
The E-04 Apprentice Pyro for Special Events, formerly known as E-19, Class B Certificate of Fitness. This Certificate allows the holder to conduct low level effects.
The E-05, formerly known as E-27/E-30, is the Theatrical SPFX C Certificate of Fitness is a premise-related Certificate of Fitness. This Certificate can cover minor effects associated with theatre shows including water-based smoke/haze effects, minor flame effects using inspector approved amounts of candles, cigarettes, lighters, and matches. E-05 COFs holders are also responsible for fire safety practices at location and are also able to serve as Safety Personnel when not executing pyrotechnic tasks.
The E-06, formerly known as E-27/E-30, is the Smoke/Haze Operator/SPFX Safety Certificate of Fitness and can cover water-based smoke machines, hazers that use no more than 20 lb compressed gas tanks. This also includes nitrogen for confetti and streamers. E-06 COFs holders are also responsible for fire safety practices at location and are also able to serve as Safety Personnel when not executing pyrotechnic tasks.
This Certificate of Fitness can be obtained by passing a written exam or qualifying for an exemption on the basis of education and experience. All applicants should review the Notice of Exam and Study Materials.
Applicants who need to take the exam must apply in person and bring the following documents: A completed Certificate of Fitness Application Form, a letter of employment, and two forms of identification, at least one must be a government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or a passport.
The New York City Fire Code changes frequently. All Certificate of Fitness holders must read and be familiar with the latest Study Materials and Notice of Exam (NOE).
To change your mailing address or work location or request a replacement refer to the FDNY Business portal instructions.
For work location changes make sure to include: a letter from your current employer (on company letterhead) confirming that you are an employee and stating your new work location, or if self-employed, a letter requesting a change to your work location, a copy of your certificate with the old address.