How much does the testing process cost?
There is base fee for testing and an additional cost for each department where you indicate you want to apply. The prices vary based on the type of job you are seeking (fire, police, emergency communication, etc). All costs are outlined in NTN's Cost Table.

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When are tests offered?
Tests are offered many times each week. The best way to find out when tests are available is to start the application process. You will not be asked for any payment or identifying information before you review the testing schedule.

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What kind of tests are they?
The standard tests are video based tests and written tests administered at a computer workstation or in a group setting. Police and corrections officer tests include physical ability tests. The Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) is separate from the standard firefighter test. CPATs are avalible every week and must be scheduled on their own.

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Where can I find out more about the computer administered tests?
There are several resources for learning more about the tests you will take at the National Testing Network Center. The first resource is this website.

Firefighter
Police and Sheriff
Corrections Officer


There are also practice tests available for police and fire applicants.
The firefighter practice test can be found at www.fireteamtest.com.
The police officer practice test can be found at www.frontlinetest.com.

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Can I test for two different job types at the same time?
No, candidates must schedule separate test sessions for each job category. NTN offers tests that are job specific and therefore candidates need to take different tests for each job. The tests for each job may take several hours and some jobs require an additional physical ability test.

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What computer skills do I need to take the tests?
At some testing locations, the standard tests are administered on computer workstations. You will need to know how to use a mouse and keyboard to take each of the tests. You will need to enter your username and password to log onto your test and use the mouse to select the answers to each question. Administrators and technical assistance will be available to answer any questions you have.

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How long are the tests?
This varies by job category. Each standard video test takes approximately 2.5 hours. Police, corrections and juvenile corrections candidates will also be required to participate in a physical test. At some locations, police and corrections applicants can schedule their physical abilities exam on the day of their choice. For some locations, the Physical Abilities Tests (PAT) will be on the morning of or follow directly after the Standard Test. PATs will take approximately 1.5 hours. Firefighter applicants need to schedule the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) separately from the standard video test. Fore more detailed information about the physical abilities tests click here.

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Are the computer administered and the physical ability tests on the same day?
At some locations, police and corrections candidates will complete the entire testing process during their scheduled time, both the Standard Test and the Physical Abilities Test (PAT). At some of testing centers, the PAT will be in the morning of their testing day, their standard test will be later in the day.

At other NTN locations, police and corrections candidates can schedule their PAT any time. On the day of their Standard Test, or at another time.

At some locations, candidates that fail the Physical Abilities Tests (PAT) for Law Enforcement and Corrections will be allowed to retake the PAT as often as they would like. If a candidate wishes to re-take the PAT, they must schedule it for a separate time. Each attempt at the physical abilities test will require the same payment as the initial testing process. Not all departments accept re-test PAT results. Some departments require 6 months between submitting PAT results. Check the department requirements on this site or contact the departments you are applying to.

Firefighter candidates will have to schedule both the video test and the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) separately. If you choose to schedule both on the same day it is important to leave enough time between your video test session and the CPAT.

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How do Network Departments check my scores?
Network departments have instant access to scores. Upon completion of the test your scores will be stored in our secure database. Departments will then be able to access you score.

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When can I test again?
Candidate's scores are kept for one year. Candidates must wait for a minimum of six months to retake the standard computer administered tests. One year after your last testing date, your score will expire and you will have to retest to continue being referred.

Candidates that fail the Physical Abilities Tests (PAT) for Law Enforcement and Corrections will be allowed to retake the PAT as often as they would like at some locations. Each attempt at the physical abilities test will require the same payment as the initial testing process. Not all departments accept re-test PAT results. Some departments require 6 months between submitting PAT results. Check the department requirements on this site or check with the departments you are applying to.

Firefighting candidates can re-take the Candidate Physical Abilities Test (CPAT) as often as they like.

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How do I find out my rank with the departments?
Once you have completed the testing process, NTN provides each department you designate with your test scores. NTN also provides recommended passing scores based on nationally recognized standards. Individual departments may choose to use different standards based on department needs. Departments will contact you if you have made it into other phases of their selection processes.

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What will departments do with my scores?
This is determined by each individual department.

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How long does a department keep my score?
We will provide Network Departments with your scores for one year. Departments will ultimately choose how long they use your scores. Departments may choose to generate a list for one year with optional extension periods. If provided by the department, NTN will post information about department specific polices in the department section.

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What about my veteran's preference points?
Veteran's preferences are determined by individual departments. When provided by the department, the National Testing Network will indicate how each department will use veteran status.

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Can I reschedule or get a refund for a test?
Candidates can reschedule or cancel up to two weeks before their scheduled test date without charge. Within the two weeks there will be no refunds provided. NTN prefers not to reschedule within the two weeks prior to tests but will consider rescheduling based on special circumstances.

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What if a department becomes a National Testing Network Department after I test?
Any time a new department becomes a part of the Network you will have the opportunity of having your results be made available to that department. NTN will send out email notifications of new departments to candidates who opt into receiving notices. You will be charged the standard price for adding departments.

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What do I need to bring to the test session?

You need to bring valid picture identification.

You will need to bring all your NTN Usernames, Passwords and Test Codes.

You will not be allowed to take bags, coats, cell phones, electronics of any sort, writing implements, paper, or anything else, into the testing area. We recommend you leave such items in your car. Open shelving will be provided but security is not guaranteed. Any person who takes prohibited objects into the testing room, will be considered to have failed the test and will not be admitted to testing at NTN Centers in the future.

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When will my Testing Date be confirmed?
As soon as your payment is accepted by the credit card company, your testing dates will be confirmed. You will also receive your User Name and Password. Be sure and save your User Name and Password in a secure place. You will need to bring photo ID and your User Name with you to the testing session.

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Does NTN accept CPAT results from other organizations?
There is a place on the application form to list your CPAT certification. A CPAT certification from NTN will automatically be avalible to the departments you apply to.

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