Free Firefighter Test Practice - Questions and Answers
The process of becoming a firefighter differs between jurisdictions, but it always involves a firefighter physical ability test and a firefighter written exam.
While the physical ability test evaluates your physical fitness, the written test is designed to measure for the cognitive abilities required for firefighting. This page includes samples of the Firefighter Exam, covering the following topics:
Numerical, Verbal, Mechanical Reasoning, Memory, Spatial Orientation, and Situational Judgment.
Firefighter Written Exams
Applying to be a Firefighter in the United States?
Find your firefighter test:
Most Common Tests
- Cooperative Personnel Service Test (CPS) - Among the most common firefighter tests, used across the United States and Canada.
- FireTEAM Test - The official written test for the National Testing Network (NTN).
- FCTC Test Prep - Preparation for the Firefighter Candidate Testing Center.
- Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test (FACT) - Used in Ontario, as well as various jurisdictions across the continent.
- FDNY Firefighter Test - New York City's firefighter exam, provided by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS).
- Firefighter Written Exam -Test questions related to Numerical, Verbal, Mechanical, and Memory skills.
More Tests:
Gledhill Shaw Occupational Skills Test (OS) | National Fire Select Test (NFST) | EB Jacobs Firefighter Exam (FSAB) | Firefighter Candidate Testing Center (FCTC) | LAFC Firefighter Candidate Assessment (FCA) | CWH Firefighter Aptitude Test | IPMA-HR Firefighter Exam | IOS Fire Selection Tool (FST) | Morris McDaniel Firefighter Test | Chicago Fire Department Test | bfp-testsBFP Interview | Nelson-Denny Practice Test
The Firefighter Physical Ability Test
In addition to the written test, every aspiring firefighter must successfully complete the Candidate Physical Ability Test or CPAT.
The test measures your physical abilities to ensure you can handle firefighter equipment. CPAT events include challenges such as hose drag, stair climb, carrying equipment, and more.
Learn more about the physical ability test.
If you are looking for a different test or are interested in becoming a Police Officer, 911 dispatcher, Civil Court Officer, or Sanitation Officer, take a look at our free Civil Service Exam and CritiCall Assessment Practice Tests.
Free Firefighter Test Practice Questions
The firefighter exam is a cognitive ability test that evaluates new recruits to the fire service. Though not standardized, the tests follow a similar format common in public safety testing.
Below, you will find questions simulating the different sections in a typical firefighter written test. If you're interested in more specific free practice, you can also try the FireTEAM Practice Test, FDNY Practice Test, or IOS FST Practice Test. You can also solve our practice police test.
You can find firefighter jobs or tests through providers like National Testing Network and Public Safety Testing.
Let's start with the first section of the written exam.
Mechanical Reasoning
Mechanical Reasoning questions in a firefighter test typically involve scenarios related to gears, levers, pulleys, tools, machinery, and other mechanical components. You will be presented with diagrams, illustrations, or descriptions of mechanical situations and asked to analyze, predict, or troubleshoot how these systems work.
1. Tools - Sample Question
Which of the tools above is used for holding objects in place?
Please mark the most relevant answer.
A. 2
B. 5
C. 6
D. 2,3, and 6
Answer:
The correct answer is B. 5.
The tool presented in image 5 is a C-clamp, which consists of a metal C-shaped frame that holds two workpieces and an adjustable screw that tightens them together.
The tools presented in images 2, 3, and 6 are a wrench and two sets of pliers, respectively. These tools are designed to tighten or hold objects momentarily.
2. Cogwheels - Sample Question
Look at the image below to answer the question.
Which way do you need to turn the RED star to make the GRAY star move in the GREEN arrow direction?
A
B
Answer:
The correct answer is B.
If the RED star is turned in the direction indicated by arrow B (clockwise), the gear-like mechanism causes the GRAY star to move in the direction of the GREEN arrow. Conversely, if the RED star is turned in the direction of arrow A (counterclockwise), it causes the GRAY star to move opposite to the GREEN arrow's direction.
Mechanical Reasoning questions assess your ability to understand basic mechanical principles, applying them to firefighting equipment and situations, as well as your knowledge in specific tools and how to operate them. The biggest challenge you will face is demonstrating solid grasp of mechanical concepts, their practical applications, and potential issues. JobTestPrep offers complete and comprehensive study guides and practice tests that include all of the different tools and principles that are included in the firefihgter test.
You can find more Mechanical Reasoning questions in the FCTC Written Practice Test, FireTEAM Test, and the National Fire Select Test PrepPacks.
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning, like reading comprehension, is a cognitive ability that involves understanding, analyzing, and interpreting owritten information. It assesses your ability to comprehend written passages, draw logical conclusions, identify relationships between ideas, and make inferences based on the information provided in the text.
3. Reading Comprehension - Sample Question
Read the following passage to answer the question.
Since the mid-1990s, about four men out of 10, and nearly a third of the women population, have been overweight, and the proportion of people with normal weight has declined. Female obesity is inversely correlated with social class and income – obesity is highest among low-income women in unskilled occupations – whereas socioeconomic factors make rather less difference to male weight.
Females are more likely to be obese if they:
A. Have low income
B. Have high social status
C. Are older
D. Are married
Answer:
The correct answer is (A).
According to the passage, "obesity is highest among low-income women" (B). This is incorrect since it notes that social class is inversely correlated with obesity—i.e., the higher the class, the less likely women are to be obese. Age and marital status are not mentioned in the passage at all.
4. Tue/False/Cannot Say - Sample Question
The production of organic food products supplied in food stores continues to increase considerably with demand particularly high in Europe and North America. Health awareness and higher standards of living are both enhancing consumption, and the market is likely to triple over the next decade. The organic food industry is facing the challenge of how it will cope with the forecasted future demand.
Organic food production is the fastest-growing field in the food industry.
Based on the passage above, the statement is:
A. True
B. False
C. Cannot say
Answer:
The correct answer is C. Cannot say.
According to the text, "The production of organic food products… continues to increase considerably" and "is likely to triple over the next decade". However, the text never mentions that it’s the fastest-growing field in the food industry.
TIP: To determine the truth value of the statement, pay close attention to the information provided about the proportion of women and men who will experience urinary tract infections at some point in their lives. Consider whether there is enough information to make a conclusion about the entire population.
Verbal Reasoning questions can be specially tough since they require several critical and logical abilities. It can be challenging to extract essential details from written passages and apply them effectively in dynamic scenarios, especially with the time limitations of the test. We recommend you dedicate time to develop strong vocabulary skills, effective communication, and interpretation of written texts.
You can find more Reading Comprehension Firefighter exam practice test questions in the National Fire Select Test, LAFD Firefighter Exam, and the Firefighter CWH Exam PrepPacks.
Numerical Reasoning
Numerical reasoning is the ability to understand and interpret numerical information presented in tables, charts, graphs, and figures. Firefighting requires making critical decisions under pressure involving numerical data.
5. Arithmetic - Sample Question
Solve the problem below and then answer the question.
6.5 x 2.1 =
Which of the numbers below is closest to the correct answer?
A. 1.6
B. 69
C. 13.5
D. 7.9
Answer:
The correct answer is C. 13.5
6.5 can be rounded up to 7, and 2.1 can be rounded to 2; therefore, 7 x 2 = 14. The closest number is 13.5.
6. Tables & Charts - Sample Question
A store sells widgets. The number of widgets sold per customer on a particular day is in the table below.
| Number of widgets purchased |
Number of |
| 1 | 37 |
| 2 | 13 |
| 3 | 18 |
| 4 | 9 |
According to the table, how many widgets were sold on this day?
A. 77
B. 87
C. 153
D. 770
Answer:
The correct answer is C. 153.
According to the table, 37 customers bought 1 widget each for a total of 37 × 1 = 37 widgets.
13 customers bought 2 widgets each for a total of 13 × 2 = 26 widgets.
18 customers bought 3 widgets each for a total of 18 × 3 = 54 widgets.
9 customers bought 4 widgets each for a total of 9 × 4 = 36 widgets.
The total number of widgets sold was:
37 + 26 + 54 + 36 = 153 widgets.
TIP: When solving Table and Graph questions, look for patterns and trends in the data. Are there any outliers or unusual values? Are there any trends that are evident in the data? This will help you to draw conclusions and find the best solution.
This numerical test section of the written test includes questions on basic math arithmetic, math word problems, graph interpretation, and equations related to firefighting operations. The challenge is to overcome the time limitations of the firefighter exam. To succeed you should practice your mental math skills, familiarize yourself with the types of questions, and develop answering strategies to manage your time properly. Our PrepPacks offer precise practice, detailed explanations and comprehensive guides to help you overcome these challenges.
You can find more Numerical Reasoning Firefighter written test questions in the FACT Test, the CPS Firefighter Test, and the Gledhill Shaw Firefighter Exam firefighter test PrepPacks.
Memory Skills
Memory questions are used to assess your ability to retain and recall information accurately. These questions typically require candidates to remember and manipulate visual or auditory information, such as patterns, sequences, directions, or instructions.
Similar to the Police Memory Skills Test, this section of the firefighter test will present you with an image followed by a series of questions about details within the image.
7. Memory Skills - Sample Question
Study the following image and then answer the questions below without looking back at the picture.
To which city do the police car and jacket belong?
A. Sunnyvale
B. Jacksonville
C. Omaha
D. Oakland
Answer:
The correct answer is A. Sunnyvale.
The jacket on the ground, as well as the police car itself, read "Sunnyvale".
8. Memory Skills - Sample Question
Which of the following is not a part of the young woman’s apparel?
A. Glasses
B. Handbags
C. Dark shirt
D. Hat
Answer:
The correct answer is D. Hat.
The young woman is wearing glasses and a dark shirt, as well as a handbag, but she is not wearing a hat.
TIP: For image memory questions, focus on details pertaining to clothes, written information, actions of individuals, and other things a Firefighter would focus on.
Developing the ability to recall information and details quickly and accurately is vital for effective firefighting operations, especially when under stressful situations. The biggest challenge of this written exam section is to manage the stress induced by the time limit. You will be more likely to excel if you practice beforehand with similar questions to test and develop your memory. Make sure to be well rested on test day.
You can find more Memory Skills questions on the Morris & McDaniel Test, FCTC Test, and the Morris & McDaniel Firefighter PrepPacks and Firefighter practice test.
Taking the CPS Firefighter Test?
The CPS Firefighter Test is a cognitive and behavioral test that includes five sections: Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Skills, Maps & Diagrams, Mechanical Aptitude, and a Behavioral section. The complexity of most questions and tight time limit of under a minute per question on average, makes it a challenging and competitive assessment. Check firefighter jobs and test dates through the official CPS website.
People who take the CPS written exam often take the EMS EMT tests as well.
JobTestPrep offers accurate prep materials including practice tests, study guides, and video tutorials that will help you prepare both for the question types and the time constraint of the test. This way you will be ready and confident when you take the test — being one step ahead of the competition! Get full access starting at $79!
Spatial Orientation
In the context of firefighter exams, Spatial Orientation is used to assess a candidate's ability to interpret maps and understand and navigate through complex and dynamic environments, which is crucial for effective firefighting and emergency response.
9. Map Interpretation - Sample Question
The map below is a scheme of subway lines in the city.
Each line is marked by a different color and is associated with a different letter. Stations are numbered by their location on the line(s). The numbering of the stations progresses from the beginning of the line to its end. Lines always begin at the northernmost station, except for lines G and M, which begin at the westernmost station. Codes associated with some of the stations have been written below them.
A station can have more than one code associated with it, as some stations have more than one line passing through them.
Use the map above to answer the following question:
Ms. Sol Aroches needs to commute from station M3 to station O3. Which of the following routes would be the least efficient (passes through the most stations)?
A. M3 → M2 → B8 → C3 → O3
B. M3 → C4 → O4 → O3
C. M3 → B10 → B5 → O3
D. M3 → M5 → O3
Answer:
The correct answer is A. M3 → M2 → B8 → C3 → O3.
Note that you are asked to find the least efficient route- this means you must look for the answer with the most stations passed through.
The route that gets you from M3 to O3 in the most steps is route A.
10. Spatial Reasoning - Sample Question
A few reports came in about a suspicious-looking van parked outside a public playground. Upon arriving at the scene you discover that the van has moved and a passerby lets you know that “it was heading eastbound, and then turned right and I saw it turning left over there at the intersection”.
What should you report on your radio?
“The suspicious van is heading..”
A. South
B. West
C. East
D. North
Answer:
The correct answer is C.
If the van was heading east and then turned right it means it was first going south, but then the second turn to the left had him facing east again.
TIP: The best way to track compass directions is to memorize how each action changes the direction (for example, turning left when facing North turns you towards West). If you are allowed to use a pen and paper, sketching also helps.
The Spatial Orientation section of the Firefighter Exam will evaluate your ability to understand and navigate physical spaces accurately. These questions are specially challenging if you are not familiar with the format. Studying with our PrepPack will help you develop the skills relevant to answering quickly and accurately, it's a matter of practice!
You can practice more Spatial Orientation questions on the McCann Firefighter Test, FACT Test, the CPS Firefighter Test, and the FST Exam PrepPacks.
Situational Judgement
Firefighter Situational Judgment Test questions aim to assess your decision-making and teamwork abilities in a fire service job, during various stressful situations. Similar to a Firefighter Personality Test — you will be presented with hypothetical firefighter-related scenarios and practices. Some Fire Departments will have a Situational judgment test section within the Written Exam, while others might require a separate exam for these questions.
11. Situational Judgement - Sample Question
Read the following text to answer the question below.
You are sitting with several of your team members, discussing the topic of religion. A fellow firefighter makes a disrespectful remark regarding your religious beliefs. This is not the first time this has occurred. You feel that he deliberately disrespects you and your beliefs.
What would you do?
A. Talk to him in private and explain your feelings.
B. Tell him that you will no longer tolerate his disrespectful remarks and threaten to take action against him.
C. Request a transfer as you can no longer work for this individual.
D. Immediately go discuss this incident with your supervisor.
Answer:
Best response: A
Competency: Interpersonal skills (teamwork).
Explanation: In this scenario, you feel that a team member is deliberately disrespecting you. You need to decide on the best course of action.
The best response in this situation is to talk to your fellow firefighter and explain to him how you feel about his comments regarding your religion (response A). This response shows good social problem-solving skills and the ability to use communication skills to resolve conflicts.
Response B is not a good response. Threatening or being hostile toward your team member will not solve the situation and may cause it to escalate.
Response C is not recommended. It is an extreme response that demonstrates a hasty decision and a lack of problem-solving skills.
Response D is not a good response as it demonstrates an inability to maturely discuss and resolve the issue independently. It would be a good response if you had already attempted to resolve the problem with your colleague. As a firefighter, you are in close proximity to your team members, and you are often dependent on them, as well as they on you. It is crucial that you be able to resolve conflicts with team members.
12. Personality Test - Sample Question
Read the statement below and then choose the option that best describes you.
If I feel my mind starting to drift into daydreams, I usually get busy and concentrate on some work or activity instead.
Strongly disagree
Disagree
Neutral
Agree
Strongly Agree
Answer:
Personality test don't have one correct answer.
To successfully pass a personality test, your profile must be compatible with the position you are applying to. Before taking the test, think about the demands and personality traits a firefighter needs during the job. These features are probably the ones your employer is searching for. Our PrepPack includes study guides with detailed explanations on the personality traits a firefighter needs as well as test simulations with explanations.
Situational Judgement Test and Personality questions can be the most challenging sections of a Firefighter Exam. They assess your ability to make decisions in complex scenarios, as well as to predict how suitable you will be for the role based on your interpersonal skills, ethical reasoning and teamwork qualities. JobTestPrep offers study guides that explain to detail the characteristics that departments are looking for, as well as practice tests to help you get familiar to the questions and test format.
You can find more Situational Judgement questions in the CPS Firefighter, and the Firefighter CWH Exam PrepPacks. You can also learn more about the police psychological exam or practice with more Free Personality Test Questions.
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Want to Ace the FireTEAM Exam?
The NTN FireTEAM Exam is a challenging cognitive and behavioral assessment for entry-level firefighting positions. It takes around two hours to complete and includes four sections: Teamwork & Human Relations, Mechanical Reasoning, Mathematics Skills, and Reading. The questions are multiple-choice and video-based.
Each Fire Department establishes their passing score, usually relative to past candidates' results. This makes this firefighter test a highly competitive and demanding firefighter test. The best way to beat the competition is to practice and familiarize yourself with each section. Check firefighter jobs and available test dates for the FireTEAM Exam.
Our PrepPack was developed by experts and tailored to the specific exam with practice tests for each section, study guides, and detailed explanations. Get full access starting at $79!
If you want to explore Firefighter Practice Tests by location, take a look at our pages on various Fire Departments across the United States. You can learn more about what to expect for each test and prepare with our comprehensive study guides and Prep Packs. JobTestPrep will help you study for Firefighter Tests in California, Ohio, Virginia, Washington State, Oklahoma, Texas, NY State, Louisiana and more.
The firefighter test is an essential step in the hiring process to becoming a firefighter. However, you will face more challenges such as completing a Candidate Physical Ability Test, a professional interview, a Personality Test, and in some cases a separate Situational Judgement Test. Make sure to contact the specific department you are applying to and ask about the requirements and process. JobTestPrep will help you every step of the way, with tailored PrepPacks and comprehensive study guides.
Firefighter Test Video
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FAQs
The difficulty of the firefighter test varies by department and factors like department size, local requirements, and your experience. Success depends on preparation and understanding the specific requirements of the department you're applying to.
The requirements to take the Firefighter test will vary depending on the hiring process of the specific deoartment you are applying to. Contact your specific Fire Department for details on the requirements and process.
Depending on where you are applying to, you will be able to take the Firefighter test either in your local department or through a test provider (such as the NTN and Public Safety Network) with designited test location.
You will get all of the information you need regarding test location once you apply.
All Firefighter tests are timed, however, the exact time will be determined by the specific test you take and/or department you are applying to. Typically, you will have to complete the test within 2 hours. Make sure to contact your department or test provider to learn the specifics.