Prince George's County, Maryland, USA
Interior Nat Harbor

CPAT

The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) was developed by our department to fairly obtain a diverse pool of candidates who are physically capable of performing the tasks required in recruit school and beyond. The list below provides the documents and information you need to participate in the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department’s CPAT process.

 

CPAT Introduction – Please Read Carefully

The CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test) consists of eight events designed to simulate essential firefighting tasks:

  1. Stair Climb – Candidates must wear a 50 lb. weighted vest throughout the test to simulate the weight of protective clothing and equipment, with an additional 25 lb. hose pack used during the stair climb.
  2. Hose Drag – Advancing uncharged hoselines.
  3. Ladder Raise and Extension – Placing and extending a ground ladder.
  4. Equipment Carry – Removing and carrying tools from the fire apparatus to the fireground.
  5. Forcible Entry – Simulating breaching a door or wall.
  6. Search – Crawling through dark, unpredictable spaces to locate victims.
  7. Rescue Drag – Dragging a victim or partner out of a fire building.
  8. Ceiling Pull – Simulating checking for fire extension overhead.

 

Orientation and Testing Policy

Each candidate will be offered two orientation sessions:

  • Orientation 1: Familiarization with the CPAT course and events.
  • Orientation 2: Hands-on practice with CPAT tools and equipment.

 

Candidates who attend both orientations will be allowed two practice test attempts and one final test attempt.

Note: If a candidate successfully passes the CPAT during a practice attempt, it will be counted as their final test.

If a candidate does not attend orientation or chooses to waive it, they will automatically advance to the final CPAT test only and will be given just one opportunity to pass.

 

Required Documents

Each candidate must bring the following documents:

Authorization for Release of Personal Information (must bring a notarized hard copy on the first day) 

Waiver Claim for Injury

Rehabilitation Form

Sign In Sheet

Acknowledgement And Waiver of CPAT Orientation (only complete if you choose to waive the orientation and proceed directly to the final CPAT)

If you have any questions related to CPAT, you can contact our recruitment team at pgfdcpat@co.pg.md.us.