Minimum Qualifications for Firefighter position:

• 18 years of age and meet all minimum qualification at time of appointment
• High School Diploma (or equivalent)
• Possession of a current, valid drivers license
• Possession of a current, valid Emergency Medical Technician certification or National Registry Emergency Medical Technician certification
• Pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
• Complete the National Testing Network (NTN) Exam

The Reno Fire Department through the Civil Service Commission requires all firefighter applicants to pass the National Testing Network, Inc. (NTN) examination to be eligible for hire.  The NTN is a service provided to conduct entry level testing and CPAT testing in a standardized, professional environment. They do not replace Reno Fire Department's decision making in the testing process.

Upon completion of the entry level exam, all candidate scores are automatically forwarded to the City of Reno Civil Service Commission. Once you have completed the exam, you will need to submit an application for the Firefighter position through the City's website to be placed on the eligible list.

For questions about, or to sign up to take the NTN exam, please visit www.nationaltestingnetwork.com, select "Firefighter" and then locate and sign up for the Reno Fire Department.

Apply 

To submit an application for the Firefighter position, go to the City of Reno's Human Resources Job Recruitment page.  Any additional questions may be directed to the Office of the Civil Service Commission at 775-334-2223 or CivilService@reno.gov. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Application Questions

I will be receiving my CPAT/NTN/EMS Certificate later this month, how do I update my application?

Please reapply once you have all of your required documentation. You must have all required documentation attached to your application at the time our recruitment closes to be referred to the next step. If you are having technical difficulties, please email your attachments to civilservice@reno.gov.

When does this recruitment close?

Our recruitment is continuous, meaning we will continue to take applications and refer eligible candidates when the department is ready to hire for a new academy.

National Testing Network (NTN)

What is the NTN? 

The National Testing Network (NTN) written exam is a critical milestone for aspiring firefighters. This exam is carefully crafted to assess candidates' abilities and knowledge, ensuring they have the essential foundation needed for a successful and fulfilling career in fire service and public safety.

What is considered a recent vs an old score for National Testing Network?

We will take your most recent test score, valid for up to 12 months, each time you apply. 

Can the National Testing Network (NTN) fee be waived?

Yes, you will have to apply through the National Testing Network (NTN) for waiver.

Scan and email the Fee Waiver Request Form to support@nationaltestingnetwork.com. The process may take several weeks. Submitting a fee waiver request does not exempt candidates from meeting testing deadlines. 

Do I submit my application after I receive my scores from National Testing Network (NTN)?

You should schedule and take your written exam through the National Testing Network (NTN). Your scores will be sent to us directly so you do not need to worry about sending them to us.
You may then apply at Reno.gov/jobs for the position of Firefighter. Please ensure that you check “yes” on your application that you have taken the NTN Fire exam.

Does Reno Fire Department accept the FCTC written exam?

No, we are only accepting NTN scores at this time. 

Is the National Testing Network (NTN) fire test and the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) the same test?

No, the National Testing Network (NTN) Fire test is the written test and the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is the physical abilities test.

Can I register for the National Testing Network (NTN) exam before taking my Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), or do I need to take my CPAT first?

It does not matter what part of the testing process you complete first. Both the CPAT and the NTN Fire exam must have been taken with 12 months of the application date.

You will need a CPAT dated within 6 months of list certification.

Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

What is the CPAT?

The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is a physical test consisting of a sequence of eight separate events progressing along a predetermined path from event to event in a continuous manner. This test was developed to allow fire departments to obtain pools of trained candidates who are physically able to perform essential job tasks at fire scenes. For a more in depth look at what is involved in the CPAT, visit National Testing Networks CPAT Information page.

What is a valid CPAT?

A Candidate Physical Ability Test is considered valid if it is within 12 months of the application date.  However, the department requires your most recent CPAT to be within six months of list certification.

Are there different CPAT standards for men and women?

The CPAT standards are the same for all candidates, regardless of gender, because firefighting demands a consistent level of physical strength, stamina, and skill to ensure safety and effectiveness on the job. The uniform standard ensures that every firefighter is prepared to meet the physical demands of the role, from carrying heavy equipment to rescuing individuals in challenging conditions. This consistency upholds safety for both firefighters and the communities they serve.

Does the CPAT have to be administered through NTN?

No, any testing vendor or facility that administers the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) is acceptable. We are refer local candidates to FCTConline.org or East Coast candidates to National Testing Network for CPAT testing. 

The nearest location for CPAT testing is in Sacramento through FCTCOnline.org.

Are you accepting physical tests other than the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)?

We are only accepting the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). This test can be administered through any vendor.