CPAT Testing
The CPAT, or Candidate Physical Ability Test, is a standardized, pass/fail test for aspiring firefighters that measures their ability to perform essential job tasks. It consists of eight events, such as a stair climb, hose drag, and forcible entry, that must be completed in a continuous sequence within 10 minutes and 20 seconds. During the test, candidates wear a 50-pound vest and other safety gear and walk an 85-foot path between events for recovery.
Are You Ready for the CPAT?
Click this link to register today.
CPAT Events
- Stair climb: Climb stairs while wearing a 50-pound vest and carrying two 12.5-pound weights on your shoulders.
- Hose drag: Drag a fire hose along a designated path.
- Equipment carry: Carry heavy equipment over a set distance.
- Ladder raise and extension: Raise a ladder to a specific height and extend it.
- Forcible entry: Simulate breaking through a door or wall with a sledgehammer.
- Search: Navigate a dark, smoky maze to simulate searching for victims.
- Rescue: Drag a rescue dummy for a set distance.
- Ceiling breach and pull: Simulate pulling down a ceiling to find the source of a fire.
Arkansas Metro Chiefs CPAT Test Information
Registration cost for the NWA Metro Chiefs CPAT testing is $95.00. This includes participation on all scheduled days within the current series that will be posted. (Please make note of the CPAT dates below)
Location of Testing
Testing dates and times:
| Saturday, March 7th | 10:00 a.m. | Orientation, Practice or Challenge* |
| Thursday, March 19th | 10:00 a.m. | Orientation, Practice or Challenge* |
| Saturday, April 11th | 10:00 a.m. | Orientation, Practice or Challenge* |
| Saturday, April 25th | 10:00 a.m. | Orientation, Practice or Challenge* |
| Saturday, May 2nd | 10:00 a.m. | Orientation, Practice or Challenge* |
| Thursday, May 21st | 10:00 a.m. | Orientation, Practice or Challenge* |
| Saturday, May 30th | 10:00 a.m. | Test only |
| *candidate is eligible to challenge the test on these dates (see Challenging the CPAT test section below) | ||
SPECIAL NOTE: The testing location is outside and weather dependent. When the weather is questionable or anticipated to be below 40F, check this webpage and the e-mail you provide during registration for updates.
CPAT/NWAMFC Test Administration Policy
National Testing Network
Written Testing Information
The National Testing Network has created a “Virtual Testing” option for the Fire Teams Test, this option allows applicants to take the test from home. In-person testing for the NWA Metro Area is administered at Northwest Technical Institute located at: 709 S. Old Missouri Rd, Springdale, AR 72764. Please refer to the information below for in-person testing dates and times.
Schedule Your NTN Testing?
Your Written Test Information
NTN Written Testing Information
- Choose jobs
- Schedule a test
- Complete required online components
- Take the Test at NTN or right here in Northwest Arkansas