Firefighter CPS Test Preparation & Study Guide

This CPS Test Preparation Resource is designed for aspiring firefighters preparing for the Cooperative Personnel Services (CPS) Firefighter Entry-Level aptitude exam. The CPS test is widely used across the United States and in parts of Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

In Ontario, the CPS aptitude test is primarily administered by Firefighter Services of Ontario and is most commonly used by fire departments in the southwest region of the province.

This resource covers both the Cooperative Personnel Services Test and the Occupational Specific Assessment for Firefighters.

What Is the CPS Aptitude Test?

The Cooperative Personnel Services (CPS) Firefighter Entry-Level Exams are developed by CPS HR Consulting, a public agency providing HR solutions for government and nonprofit organizations across Canada and the U.S.

There are multiple versions of the CPS test, identified by stock numbers, including both standard and metric versions:

These exams reflect the real demands of a firefighter career, assessing cognitive skills, problem-solving, memory, and language abilities essential for effective decision-making on the job.

What Does the CPS Test Consist Of?

CPS tests differ slightly by version. All are multiple-choice and completed with pen and paper.

Examples of CPS Test Components by version:

How Long Is the CPS Test?

How to Prepare for the CPS Test

On Test Day

• Only #2 pencils and erasers are allowed.
• Remove all other items from your desk.
• Test booklets must remain closed until told to begin.
• Follow the proctor’s instructions carefully.
• Fill in CPS test title, control number, testing agency, candidate ID, and optional research answers.
  
  

Reading Comprehension / Understanding Written Information

• Measures the ability to read and interpret text, tables, diagrams, charts, and captions.
• Focus on content in passages, not prior knowledge.
• Short factual passages are followed by questions about the text.
  
  

Mathematical Ability

• Focus on practical problem-solving: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, ratios, percentages, and conversions.
• Applied to real-world firefighting tasks, e.g., water supply, ladder placement, air tank calculations.
• No calculator allowed.
  
  

Mechanical Aptitude / Maps, Diagrams, Mechanical Reasoning

• Interpret maps, floor plans, and diagrams.
• Visualize spaces and navigate safely.
• Understand simple machines, tools, and basic physics.
• Solve practical problems under pressure.
  
  

Human Relations / Teamwork, Public Relations, Community Living

• Evaluates teamwork, decision-making, interpersonal skills, and professional conduct.
• Demonstrates task prioritization, communication, and cooperation in emergency and everyday scenarios.
  
  

Oral Communication / Understanding Oral Information

• Measures listening and memory skills for oral instructions on the fireground.
• Candidates hear a passage once and answer questions based solely on that passage.

CPS Test Preparation Tips

CPS Test Time Management

• Plan your test-taking order in advance.
• Divide remaining time among test sections.
• Don’t spend too long; maximize correct answers efficiently.

What Is a Good Score on the CPS Test?

• The test is scored out of 100, with one mark per question.
• No penalty for incorrect answers, so guess if unsure.
• Fire departments may combine test scores with interviews for selection.
• Aim for 85%+; 70% passes, competitive recruitment demands higher scores.

Firefighter Aptitude Test Preparation Course

For firefighters looking to fully master the CPS test, my Firefighter Aptitude Test Preparation Course provides:

• Step-by-step strategies for answering questions quickly and accurately.
• Flexible scheduling and tailored instruction to strengthen weak areas.
• One-on-one online instruction with lessons, assessments, and practice.
• Covers oral communication, reading, math, and mechanical reasoning.

Contact us today to enroll in the Firefighter Aptitude Test Preparation Course and gain the confidence, skills, and strategies to succeed on your CPS test!