Candidate Physical Ability Test

The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is the standard assessment for measuring an individual's ability to handle the physical demands of being a firefighter. The CPAT is a timed test that measures how candidates handle eight separate physical tasks or functions, designed to mirror tasks that firefighters would have to do on the job.^{[1][2][3][4][5]}

During the test, candidates are required to complete 8 separate tasks in a period of 10 minutes and 20 seconds. The tasks are the following:

• Stair Climb (climbing stairs while carrying an additional 25 pound simulated hose pack)
• Hose Drag (stretching uncharged hose lines, advancing lines)
• Equipment Carry (removing and carrying equipment from fire apparatus to fire ground)
• Ladder Raise and Extension (placing a ground ladder at the fire scene and extending the ladder to the roof or a window)
• Forcible Entry (penetrating a locked door, breaching a wall)
• Search (crawling through dark unpredictable areas to search for victims)
• Rescue Drag (removing a victim or partner from a burning building)
• Ceiling Breach and Pull (locating a fire and checking for fire extension)

During the test, candidates are required wear a helmet, gloves and a 50 pound weighted vest. This is designed to simulate the weight of a firefighter's personal protective equipment. For the stair climb, candidates are required to carry an additional 25 pounds of weight, which simulates the carrying of a hose pack into a high rise fire. Candidates are accompanied by a test proctor, who calls out directions for the test events and scores the candidate's success. Each event of the CPAT must be completed as directed. If a candidate fails any component of the test or does not complete the test within the 10 minute and 20 second time limit, they will fail the entire test.^[1]

• United States Army Physical Fitness Test

• CPAT Orientation Video
• CPAT Frequently Asked Questions