• Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) – A timed pass/fail test with eight separate events designed to simulate the specific physical demands of firefighting. FCTC is the exclusive statewide CPAT provider for California. 
• Written Testing – A fully validated written general knowledge test, with questions and examples tailored to the profession. Designed to demonstrate your ability to process information and think critically.
• ALS Assessment (Paramedics only) – For departments looking for paramedics, FCTC provides ALS assessment certified by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). 
• The FCTC Statewide List – Candidates that successfully complete their written and CPAT testing are eligible placed on the FCTC hiring list. Contracting departments hire directly off of these lists.
• Mentoring and Career Guidance – We don’t just want you to survive – we want you to thrive. FCTC is run by the Cal-JAC, the state’s labor-management training and recruitment partnership. That gives you access to career services to help you get a job, and mentoring programs to help you keep it.

How Departments Use FCTC

California fire departments affiliate with FCTC to provide some or all of their pre-qualification testing. In most California fire departments, the FCTC CPAT certification is required as part of the application process – even if they conduct their own written test.

The test results are used by departments to select individuals to enter their fire academy and/or take the next step in their hiring process. 

How to Get Started

SIGN UP HERE to set up your FCTC account and register for the CPAT and/or an upcoming written test.

In order to be eligible to for employment by an FCTC department, you will be required to provide copies of documents verifying your eligibility. 

If you’re still unsure about whether firefighting is right for you, check out some of the career resources on this site.

You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter or go to www.becomingafirefighter.org.