CPAT Information

The Fort Wayne Fire Department is licensed to conduct the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). The cost is $130.00 and payable by cash or money order. For more information or to register, please contact Captain Travis Hostler at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or (260)427-5141 .

CPAT - Candidate Physical Ability Test Overview 

The Fort Wayne Fire Department is licensed to use and offer the Candidate Physical Ability Test, more commonly known as the CPAT. In 1996, the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the International Association of Fire Fighters joined forces to develop and implement a physical abilities test that would enable fire departments to hire inherently physically capable firefighters.

The CPAT is a pass/fail test based on a validated maximum total time of 10 minutes and 20 seconds. The CPAT consists of eight events that simulate actual job duties of a fire fighter on the fire ground. The 8 events are: Stair Climb, Hose Drag, Equipment Carry, Ladder Raise & Extension, Forcible Entry, Search, Rescue, and the Ceiling Breach & Pull. Along with the proper attire of shirt, long pants, appropriate gym shoes, hard hat and gloves, candidates must also wear a 50-pound weight vest to simulate the weight of fire fighter personal protective equipment (PPE) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) during the entire CPAT process.

Prior to taking the CPAT, candidates should review the Candidate Preparation Guide that assists them in physically preparing for the test. It is highly recommended that candidates also attend an orientation session that consists of viewing an informative CPAT video and hearing instruction on what the CPAT is and how to properly prepare for it. For further information on the specific components of the CPAT, please review the Candidate Orientation Guide.

Orientation and Station Practice sessions will be used to familiarize the candidate with the CPAT. Candidates will have the opportunity to ask questions of Peer Fitness Trainers and gain valuable training and testing tips.

Candidates who elect to sign a waiver of participation in the orientation period may challenge the CPAT during Timed Course Practice or CPAT Test times. However, payment is required prior to each challenged test attempt. (See “Waiver of Orientation” form in CPAT Registration Packet)

Click on the links below to download the information:

CPAT Preparation Guide

CPAT Orientation Guide

CPAT Registration Package