Firefighting is a challenging and physically demanding job. Specific levels of physical conditioning are required to successfully perform the job functions of a Firefighter. The Virginia Beach Fire Department will utilize CPAT to assess each candidate’s physical ability to complete critical firefighting tasks effectively and safely. Click here to view the 
CPAT Prep Manual.
CPAT Orientation: February 11 and February 12, 2013, EVERY HOUR ON THE HOUR from 9:00am to 5:00pm in Chesapeake.
Attendance is not mandatory; candidates may attend an orientation session on either date. The orientation will include a short video on the CPAT followed by a tour of each of the eight stations that make up the test: Stair Climb, Hose Drag, Equipment Carry, Ladder Raise and Extension, Forcible Entry, Search and Rescue, and Ceiling Breach and Pull. View each station and details about the CPAT Orientation here.
CPAT Orientation Address:
1210 Scholastic Way
Chesapeake, VA 23323
TEST DATES: March 4 through March 11, 2013, from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Email notifications were sent February 25.
You will be required to present valid identification and sign a number of forms before taking the CPAT. To facilitate check-in, please print and sign these forms:
Orientation Waiver
Injury Waiver
Check-in Form
Bring these with you to CPAT. At the conclusion of the CPAT, you may be required to sign additional forms. If you fail to complete and sign any of these forms, you fail the CPAT. Those who fail will be encouraged to join the CPAT Mentoring Program.
MENTORING PROGRAM: Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 12 through May 2, 2013, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.
DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: 5:00PM, March 15.
Attendance is not mandatory, but is encouraged. Candidates may also choose to attend as many mentoring sessions as they wish. Candidates will be trained in the skills to complete the CPAT test, including how to achieve the fitness levels needed to be firefighters.
NOTE: If you are unable to participate in the Mentoring Program but would STILL like to participate in the April Timed Trials, refer to the email sent on March 12, 2013, with directions on how to sign up.
TIMED TRIALS: April 16 and 18, 2013, from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: 12:00PM, March 22.
In these trials, the candidates are allowed to take as much time as necessary to complete the entire course.
FINAL TEST: May 6 through May 9, 2013, from 9:00am to 4:00pm.
DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: (extended) 5:00PM, April 26.
The Final Test dates are for candidates who have not yet been successful.
VBFD will also accept valid CPAT cards from candidates who test anytime between November 9, 2012 and May 9, 2013. Pass cards/certificates from other IAFF-licensed agencies must be received by Fire HR no later than 5:00PM, Thursday, May 9.