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Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

Information about the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).

About the CPAT

For more CPAT information you may visit nmcpat.com and for out of state sites, National Testing Network.

When the IAFF/IAFC Joint Labor Management Wellness-Fitness Task Force (WFI Task Force) first met in December 1996, the WFI Task Force agreed, in part, to address the issue of physical performance in the fire service. The resulting Candidate Physical Ability Test Program (CPAT) was developed to provide fire departments with a tool that would enable them to select inherently physically capable individuals to be trained as fire fighters.

The Albuquerque Fire Rescue has adopted the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) as a physical agility component in the hiring process. All candidates must successfully pass the CPAT test for consideration of employment with the Albuquerque Fire Rescue.

Firefighting requires above average aerobic and anaerobic capacity, muscular endurance and strength, and flexibility. The test is designed to identify individuals who have the physical attributes to perform the job of a firefighter. The Orientation Guide provides a detailed description of the course and explains the Pass/Fail scoring system.

Candidate Physical Ability Test Orientation

An orientation class is standard in any CPAT test facility and should include:

  • Information about the physical and mental rigors of the firefighter profession
  • Discussion of basic exercise concepts
  • Specific CPAT physical training tips
  • CPAT video that describes and demonstrates each test task

CPAT Preparation Guide & Orientation Guide

The CPAT Orientation Guide provides a detailed description of the course and explains the Pass/Fail scoring system. The CPAT Preparation Guide provides information about basic exercise concepts, specific flexibility, aerobic, and strength training exercises. It will also show you how to design your own exercise program and how to practice some of the events at home. Both the CPAT Preparation Guide and Orientation Guide are given to candidates at the CPAT Orientation.

The CPAT tests a candidate to determine whether he/she is physically qualified to perform the job of a firefighter. The test consists of eight separate job related physical tasks performed in a continuous sequence.

For more CPAT information you may visit nmcpat.com and for out of state sites, National Testing Network.

CPAT candidate participating in ceiling breech and pull