911 Dispatcher Test

Becoming a 911 dispatcher is a high-responsibility career that requires quick thinking, clear communication, and emotional stability. One of the first steps in the hiring process is passing the 911 Dispatcher Test, also known as the Public Safety Dispatcher Test or Emergency Communications Test, depending on the agency. This exam evaluates whether you have the skills necessary to handle high-pressure emergency calls with accuracy and professionalism.

What Is the 911 Dispatcher Test?

The 911 dispatcher test is a pre-employment exam designed to assess your ability to perform the tasks required in a 911 call center. These tasks often involve:

• Multi-tasking
• Listening and memory recall
• Decision-making
• Data entry accuracy
• Typing speed
• Prioritization and judgment
• Map reading or situational awareness

Depending on the agency or testing provider (such as CritiCall or POST), the test format and content may vary slightly, but the core skills evaluated remain consistent across the board.

Common Sections on the Dispatcher Test

1. Data Entry

You’ll be asked to listen to spoken information (like names, addresses, or license plates) and type it accurately into a form. This section measures your typing speed and attention to detail—both critical for handling real-time emergency data.

2. Decision-Making and Prioritization

You’ll receive multiple emergency scenarios and must decide which calls should be prioritized. This section evaluates your judgment under pressure and your understanding of urgency.

3. Multi-Tasking Simulation

This section replicates what it’s like to enter data while listening to calls and responding to updates simultaneously. You might need to switch between several tasks, all while remaining accurate and composed.

4. Reading Comprehension and Listening

You’ll read policies or listen to information and then answer multiple-choice questions. This assesses your ability to retain information and follow procedures precisely.

5. Map Reading and Spatial Orientation

Some tests will evaluate your ability to read street maps, determine directions, or locate addresses quickly. This skill is important for coordinating emergency response units.

How to Prepare for the 911 Dispatcher Test

1. Practice with Dispatcher-Style Simulations

Use online tools or test prep platforms that simulate multi-tasking and data entry under time pressure. The CritiCall Practice Test is one of the best-known preparation resources.

2. Improve Typing Speed and Accuracy

You’ll likely need to type 35–50 words per minute. Use free typing tests to practice, focusing on both speed and error-free entries.

3. Strengthen Your Listening and Memory

Practice listening to audio clips (like news or podcasts) and writing down key facts without replaying them. This mirrors what you’ll need to do on the job.

4. Review Emergency Protocol Concepts

Even if you don’t have prior dispatch experience, understanding basic emergency call procedures, prioritization levels (e.g., life-threatening vs. non-emergency), and communication protocols can help.

5. Take Practice Tests

The more familiar you are with the test format, the better. Practice tests help reduce anxiety and build confidence, especially in the multi-tasking and decision-making sections.

Scoring and Passin

Each agency sets its own passing score, but generally, a score of 70% or higher is required to move on in the hiring process. Some sections may be weighted more heavily, especially those tied to real-time decision-making and typing accuracy.

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911 Dispatcher Test – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the 911 dispatcher test?

The 911 dispatcher test is a pre-employment exam used by emergency communication centers to evaluate a candidate’s ability to handle high-stress tasks such as multi-tasking, data entry, decision-making, and verbal comprehension. Tests may vary by agency, but commonly used versions include the CritiCall and POST Dispatcher Test.

Is the 911 dispatcher test hard?

Yes, the test is challenging because it simulates the real pressure of handling emergency calls. It requires quick thinking, accurate typing, and fast decision-making while managing multiple tasks at once. However, with practice, many candidates successfully pass.

What is a passing score on the dispatcher test?

Passing scores vary by agency, but most require a minimum of 70% overall. Some tests may also have minimum scores for specific sections, such as typing or decision-making.

How can I prepare for the dispatcher test?

• Take CritiCall or similar practice tests
• Improve your typing speed and accuracy
• Practice listening and memory recall exercises
• Learn basic emergency call procedures and prioritization
• Review map reading and spatial orientation skills if included

How long does the 911 dispatcher test take?

The test typically lasts 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the provider and number of sections. It is often taken in one sitting and may be computer-based and timed.

Do I need prior experience to pass the test?

No, the test is designed for both experienced and new candidates. However, preparing in advance with practice tools significantly improves your chances of passing.

Can I retake the test if I fail?

In most cases, yes—but you may need to wait a set period (e.g., 6 months) or reapply for a new position. Always check with the hiring agency’s specific policy.

Below are the most common Federal and Government jobs:

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911 Dispatcher Test Quizlet

Here are 12 sample questions that could be similar to those found on a 911 dispatcher test, or that would be relevant to the skills needed for the position:

1. Listening Comprehension: If a caller reports that they are at 123 Main Street and their house is on fire, what information should you dispatch to emergency responders?
2. Multitasking: If you were on the phone with a caller reporting a crime and another line starts ringing with an unknown emergency, what should you do?
3. Data Entry: What keyboard shortcut is commonly used to copy selected text? (a) Ctrl + C (b) Ctrl + V (c) Ctrl + X (d) Ctrl + Z
4. Geographical Knowledge: What is the best way to ascertain a caller’s location if they are unable to provide an address?
5. Decision Making and Prioritization: You receive a call about a cat stuck in a tree and another about a car accident with potential injuries. Which call do you prioritize?
6. Emotional Resilience and Stability: How would you handle a caller who is extremely upset and yelling?
7. Reading Comprehension: If an instruction manual states that a particular action should only be taken under a supervisor’s guidance, when is it appropriate to perform that action?
8. Typing Skills: If you mistype an address to the responding units, what should you do?
9. Customer Service Skills: How would you handle a caller who is unable to speak English or speaks very limited English?
10. General Knowledge: A caller reports chest pain and shortness of breath. What type of emergency responders should be dispatched to this call?
11. Math Skills: If you need to calculate the response time, and the police station is 5 miles away from the incident location, traveling at 60 miles per hour, how long will it take for them to arrive?
12. Stress Management: How would you maintain composure if you had multiple emergency lines ringing at once and were the only dispatcher available?