Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
The Naperville Fire Department holds a limited license for the purpose of administering the Candidate Physical Ability Test, or CPAT, to assess the physical capability of firefighter candidates.
The CPAT is accepted by many fire departments across the United States, including the Naperville Fire Department, as a predictor of an applicant's ability to perform basic firefighting tasks. Upon successful completion of the test, a CPAT Identification Card will be issued to the candidate for use in the fire department hiring process. Learn more about the CPAT here.
Candidates applying to any fire department, not just those applying to the Naperville Fire Department, are permitted to register to take the CPAT in Naperville.
See the CPAT Schedule & Register
Ladder Climb Exercise
Candidates taking the CPAT in Naperville also have the opportunity to satisfy the state-required ladder climb exercise. Learn more about the ladder climb exercise here.
One-Time Challenge Days
The Naperville Fire Department will offer open Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) challenges for those candidates who do not wish to attend orientation and practice sessions. Candidates will waive the orientation and any practice upon arrival at the test. A one-time challenge is available during ANY of the dates noted on the registration page.
Additional Details
Qualifications: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the first scheduled session and must possess a valid government-issued driver's license or state ID card.
Sessions: Each CPAT session consists of an orientation, up to two practice tests and one test.
One-Time Challenges: One-time challenges (one-time tries) are available for those candidates who do not wish to attend orientation and practice sessions. Candidates will waive the orientation and any practice upon arrival at the test. Candidates may challenge CPAT during Timed Course Practice dates or CPAT Test dates.
Fee: $160 includes the CPAT orientation, up to two optional practice tests, and the final test. This fee also includes the opportunity to satisfy the state-required ladder climb exercise. The fee for one time challenges is also $160.
Payment: Payment instructions will be given during the registration process.
Location: Naperville conducts all CPAT orientations, practices and tests at 1200 W. Ogden Avenue, Naperville IL 60563.
Attire: Participation in CPAT activities requires long pants (no shorts), a T-shirt or sweatshirt, footwear without an exposed heel or toe and no loose or restrictive jewelry, including watches. Candidates not adhering to this dress code will not be allowed to participate in any CPAT activities.
Refunds: Refunds will not be given once your payment is received.
FAQs: See our CPAT Frequently Asked Questions webpage for additional information.
*PASSING THE CPAT: Candidates who successfully complete the CPAT during a practice session are eligible to receive a CPAT Identification Card and, therefore, are not required to take the CPAT on the later scheduled test date.
Contact
If you have questions about Naperville's CPAT program, please email cpat@naperville.il.us.