Entry-Level Firefighter Exam Procedures - No Testing At This Time

Sep 26, 2026

Entry-Level Firefighter examination procedures outline current scheduling constraints, noting there is no firefighting testing date at this time and that the full process takes about one month. The document specifies eligibility requirements for U.S. citizens aged 21–35, with a high school diploma or GED, and residency within a 20-mile radius of Carbondale. It details application submission methods, exam components (written test with 100 multiple-choice questions and a 70% pass requirement), physical fitness assessment standards, and exemptions related to CPAT ladder certification.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages10

Reading Time25 min

AccessFree to download

Written Exam

Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA)

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) and Ladder Climb Certification

PFA Apparel and Required Components

Time Distance Run

Hose Drag

Written Exam Physical Fitness Assessment: Oral Interview Examination: The is no firefighting testing date at this time. Note: The Firefighter Examination process requires approximately one month to complete. QUALIFICATIONS TO APPLY: • No prior training or experience in the position of Firefighter is required or expected • Applicants for examination must be citizens of the United States • Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and not over 35 years of age • Must possess a high school diploma or GED certificate • Live within a 20-mile radius of Carbondale within 6 months of hire date as prescribed by the Carbondale Revised Code, Title 1, Section 4-16 • Comply with the City nepotism ordinance and all other City ordinances. An online Firefighter application may be completed and submitted through the City’s website at [www.explorecarbondale.com](www.explorecarbondale.com) Completed applications may also be submitted by mail or email. Mail to: City Clerk’s Office – City of Carbondale P.O. Box 2047, Carbondale, IL 62902 e-mail to: [chayes@explorecarbondale.com](chayes@explorecarbondale.com) Questions should be directed to the City Clerk’s office at 618-457-3281 COMPONENTS OF THE FIREFIGHTER EXAMINATION: Written Examination Candidates must present a valid photo [I.D. in](I.D. in) order to take the written exam. The written exam is ordered from an independent testing service. Candidates are given 2 hours to complete the test comprised of 100 multiple choice questions that measures the following skills and abilities: 􀁸 Reasoning and logical thinking 􀁸 Reading comprehension 􀁸 Math 􀁸 Map reading 􀁸 Writing abilities 􀁸 Situational judgement Candidates must achieve a passing score of at least 70% . Official results of the written exam will be posted outside of the City Clerk’s office at City Hall prior to the Physical Fitness Assessment. If you do not pass the written exam you WILL NOT be able to participate in the Physical Fitness Assessment. o PREFERENCE POINTS A maximum of five (5) preference points are available to applicants who were engaged in the U.S. military service for at least one year of active duty, who were honorably discharged, and who are now or have been members on inactive or reserve duty. Preference points may be submitted to the City Clerk’s office and must be requested in writing and include a copy of the DD-214. Preference points will be added to the candidate’s written exam score and reflected on the Final Eligibility List. Physical Fitness Assessment The Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) will be conducted at Carbondale Fire Station \#2 located at 401 North Glenview Drive for candidates who have passed the written exam. The PFA is designed to evaluate the basic physical condition of the candidate in endurance, strength, flexibility, agility and for fear of heights, darkness, and enclosed spaces. All sections of the PFA must be passed successfully. Because the requirements are set to minimum standards, failure to pass any component would indicate that the candidate is physically unfit for duty asan active member of the department. At such time, the application process will be terminated and said candidate will become ineligible for any further participation in the testing process. Examiner evaluation is final and not subject to appeal. (COMPONENTS OF THE FIREFIGHTER EXAMINATION continued) Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) and Ladder Climb Certification: Candidates that possess the CPAT WITH Ladder Certification shall be exempt from the PFA. A copy of the certification must be submitted with the Firefighter application and be dated within twelve months of scheduled PFA. Candidates with this certification will not be required to participate in any event of the PFA. Candidates that possess the CPAT WITHOUT Ladder Certification shall be exempt from the PFA with the exception of the Ladder Climb. Candidates with this certification will on

FAQs

Is there a testing date announced for the firefighting exam right now?

No. The document states there is no firefighting testing date at this time.

What are the core eligibility requirements to apply for the exam?

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, aged at least 21 and not over 35, and have a high school diploma or GED. Candidates must also live within a 20-mile radius of Carbondale within 6 months of the hire date and comply with city ordinances.

What happens if a candidate does not pass the written examination?

If you do not pass the written exam, you will not be able to participate in the Physical Fitness Assessment.

Sep 26, 2026

Uploaded by anakgang17