Candidate Physical Ability Test

The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is a nationally recognized physical ability assessment developed by the IAFF and IAFC. The test consists of a continuous sequence of job-related events designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to perform essential firefighter tasks.

Many Kansas fire departments require or accept CPAT certification as part of the firefighter hiring process for entry-level candidates.

HutchCC Fire Science is an IAFF-licensed CPAT testing site and conducts all testing at the Fire Science East Facility. Successful candidates receive a CPAT certificate valid for one year.

What Is the CPAT?  IAFF Overview Video

This video provides an overview of the CPAT events and testing process as developed by the IAFF.

Questions? Contact HutchCC Fire Science at 620-728-4460 or 620-728-4461.

We are currently accepting registrations for the upcoming Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). Registration fees and test dates are listed below.

To register for the next CPAT test, click the registration link below.

Registration for the next CPAT Test.

Payment Process

After you have completed your registration, HutchCC Fire Science will contact you to collect the $85 testing fee. Please have a credit card available at that time.

If you prefer, you may also contact our main office directly at 620-728-4460 to submit payment.

Once payment has been received, you will be sent an email confirming:

• Your assigned test start time

• Additional testing instructions

Candidates must arrive at the testing facility 30 minutes prior to their scheduled test time.

Required Items for CPAT Testing

Candidates must bring the following on test day:

• Long pants

• Athletic shoes

• Photo identification

• No shorts permitted

Important Notice

Testing details and your assigned start time will be emailed after payment is received. If you do not receive this information prior to your test date, please contact HutchCC Fire Science.

Cost:

• $85 – Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
  (See registration details above)

Upcoming Test Dates:

• January 30, 2026
  Registration and payment deadline: January 29, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.

• April 17, 2026
  Registration and payment deadline: April 16, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.

Test Location

All CPAT testing is conducted at the HutchCC Fire Science East Building, located on HutchCC’s South Campus:

11319 S. Halstead St.
Hutchinson, KS 67501

 Map Location of Fire Science East - CPAT Building

Note: This facility is located south of the city limits and is not within the city of Hutchinson.

Questions or Assistance

For additional information or assistance, please contact HutchCC Fire Science at 620-728-4460.

PRACTICE AND ORIENTATION REGISTRATION

Orientation and practice sessions are optional but strongly encouraged and are only held when candidates are registered to attend.