Candidate Physical Agility Test (CPAT)
The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is a timed, pass/fail test that measures a candidate's physical fitness for firefighting and performing essential job tasks.
The CPAT fee is $200.00. See below for details on Test Administration, Orientation and Time Trials.
Register for the CPAT by visiting our OpenGov website.
Orientation and Time Trials
The West Allis Fire Department conducts Candidate Physical Agility Testing (CPAT) orientations, time trials and testing at Fire Station 62 located at 2040 S. 67th Pl. in West Allis. Advanced registration for orientation(s), time trial sessions and final test is required.
At the orientation session, candidates will view a videotaped presentation of the test, observe a demonstration of each event, receive hands-on familiarity with actual CPAT apparatus, and receive guidance on specific conditioning regimens and techniques to help them prepare for the test. Both orientations are the same, and participants are encouraged to attend at least one of the orientation sessions.
Candidates will be offered the opportunity to do two time trial tests in the 30-day period leading up to a final CPAT date. The time trials are presented as a final test timed event. The West Allis Fire Department shall perform CPAT in accordance with the International Association of Fire Fighters/International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFF/IAFC) program description and instructions (IAFF, CPAT second edition).
The CPAT time trials and test begin at 9 a.m. and CPAT orientations begin at 1 p.m. We do not conduct any official testing at orientations.
Test Administration
The West Allis Fire Department conducts Candidate Physical Agility Testing (CPAT) testing at Fire Station 62 located at 2040 S. 67th Pl. in West Allis.
The CPAT test will be administered in accordance with the specifications and requirements of the IAFF/IAFC CPAT Program (IAFF, second edition). Candidates should arrive at the test site approximately 20 minutes prior to the 9 a.m. test time to allow for personal preparation (stretching, warm-up, etc.).
Only the CPAT participant is allowed in the Fire Station or on the CPAT course. Additional people cannot be accommodated.
Bring a valid photo identification and signed forms in order to take the CPAT test.
A video detailing the CPAT test events and the failure points will be shown. It is the participant's responsibility to ask questions if they do not understand any part of the test events or procedures. At the conclusion of the CPAT, participants must sign a rehabilitation form prior to leaving the test site.
Requirements
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and in good physical health. See the CPAT Orientation Guide and CPAT Preparation Guide to help prepare you for this testing process.
Weather Conditions
The CPAT process is conducted outdoors. Orientations, time trials and the final test will be conducted in almost any weather except, for the following conditions as set forth by the IAFF CPAT Manual:
Temperature is below 45° F.
Heat index (temperature and humidity) is greater than 95° F.
Wind speed higher than 20 miles per hour.
There is a measurable amount of rain and/or lightning/thunder.
If an orientation, time trial or test is cancelled due to any of the above weather conditions, participants will be notified via email in as timely a manner as possible.