Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) – What to Expect
Firefighting is one of the most respected and challenging careers one can pursue. Daily job duties of a firefighter demand a high level of strength and conditioning. In order to earn a position with the Newport News Fire Department, applicants must pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). CPAT was developed by the International Association of Firefighters/International Association of Fire Chief's Joint Labor Management Task Force as a validated tool to enable fire departments to select candidates who are physically capable to perform the job of a firefighter. The CPAT consists of eight (8) job related events that must be performed sequentially. This is a pass/fail test based on a maximum time of 10 minutes and 20 seconds. During the entire test, the candidate must wear a 50lb. weighted vest (simulating the weight of a firefighter's protective clothing and equipment).