The Application Process

Step 2: Written Exam

• The Charleston Fire Department utilizes The National Firefighter Selection Test - Emergency Medical Services (NFST-EMS).  
• The NFST will measure reading comprehension, mathematics, and listening comprehension. 
• Candidates may purchase practice tests and study guides at https://www.ApplyToServe.com/Study/.
• The written examination will be administered in-person, following pre-orientation.
• Once the test has been graded candidates will be notified if they are moving forward in the process.

Step 3: Physical Ability Test (PAT)

• The Physical Ability Test (PAT) is a physical examination the Charleston Fire Department utilizes to assess a candidate’s physical fitness. 
• Candidates who possess a valid CPAT certificate, or have passed the CFD administered PAT with the minimum required passing score, within the past 12 months are not required to re-take the Physical Ability Test. 
• We do our best to schedule a practice date where candidates may come to our training grounds and practice any or all of the testing stations.  
• You must complete the PAT in 12:01 (twelve minutes and one second) or less. 
• Candidates are given their score and whether they passed or failed immediately after completing the PAT. 
• Candidates with a passing PAT score will be notified of an interview date and time.  
• Please follow the link on the side of this page for more information on the PAT.  

Step 4: Interview Panel

• The final stage of the hiring process is the Interview Panel. 
• Candidates are given the same amount of time. 
• All candidates are asked the same questions. 
• This is your opportunity to stand out from your peers and not only tell us more about who you are, but to ask any questions you may have about the position. 
• The dress attire should be clean and neat in appearance, we recommend business attire.

Step 5: Completion and Potential Offer

Candidates will be contacted regarding their final status and if they were selected for employment. Once a candidate accepts a contingent job offer their seat is reserved in the recruit school.   Please note that failure to acknowledge this offer forfeits your seat, so ensure you are monitoring for or any correspondence from the CFD hiring team. 

 It is important to understand that not all candidates will be selected or may fail one of the testing portions of this process.  We know this can be very disheartening and frustrating and hope that you keep the following things in mind: 

•  This process is very competitive.
•  Think of each hiring cycle as a blank slate and a brand new opportunity for you to join our Fire Department. 
•  Our recruitment team is always here to help you with any phase of the hiring process. 

 We wish you the best of luck and look forward to seeing you!