How hard is the 911 operator test?

Yes, the 911 dispatcher test (like the CritiCall) is challenging because it simulates high-pressure, fast-paced emergency scenarios, testing your multitasking, memory, data entry, and decision-making under strict time limits, often overwhelming new applicants, but it's manageable with practice on core skills like typing and multitasking. The test is intentionally designed to push your limits to gauge real-world aptitude, so feeling like you failed or did poorly is common, even if you pass.

Is the 911 dispatcher test hard?

The CritiCall is considered a hard exam since it simulates some of the difficult tasks that dispatchers need to do on the job. Test-takers with no dispatch experience will likely find the test harder, but prior preparation can help improve your performance and test score.

What to expect on a 911 dispatcher test?

Expect a multi-faceted test assessing high-pressure skills like multitasking, memory, listening, and decision-making through simulated emergency scenarios, map reading, data entry, and cognitive/personality questions, often using programs like CritiCall, focusing on quick, accurate information processing under pressure to determine if you can handle real-world call-taking. 

How difficult is it to be a 911 dispatcher?

Sometimes Dispatching is Hard

The job isn't physically demanding, but it can be emotionally and mentally taxing. Some days are worse than others. These are the reasons why specific training deals with some of the more distressing aspects of the job.

How long does the 911 operator test take?

Each test is administered with its own set of instructions and is timed separately. The separately-timed tests range from 5 minutes to 15 minutes each. The entire test battery takes about 2½ to 3 hours, including a short break.

CritiCall Dispatcher Test Questions Explained + Free Practice Test

How many people fail the CritiCall test?

As can be seen in the table, when using the 60% assumption, more than 76% of the test takers whose composite percentile score is higher than 60 on the CritiCall test would likely be successful if hired, whereas only 35% of test takers whose percentile score is lower than 20 on the test would likely be successful.

What disqualifies you from being a 911 dispatcher?

there must be no indications of instability in their employment history; including excessive tardiness or absenteeism, inefficiency, failure to follow directions, policies, procedures, rules, and regulations, poor working relationships, or negligent work habits.

How to pass a dispatcher exam?

To pass a dispatcher test (like CritiCall or POST), focus on practicing core skills: fast, accurate typing (35+ WPM), data entry, map reading (N, S, E, W), multitasking, and following complex rules under pressure for logical problem-solving. Use online practice tests and guides, study reasoning/memory exercises, and ensure a quiet environment to build speed and accuracy in verbal, memory, and perceptual tasks. 

Why do 911 dispatchers quit?

911 Dispatchers Quit Due to Poor Working Conditions. The real emergency in our 911 centers isn't outdated technology. It's the 50% of new dispatchers who quit before completing training.

What is the typing speed for dispatchers?

Many 911 operator positions require candidates to achieve approximately 40 - 45 words per minute on a typing test with very high accuracy. You can practice for your typing test for free.

How do I pass a 911 dispatcher interview?

To prepare for a 911 dispatcher interview, research the agency, practice STAR method answers for high-stress scenarios (multitasking, difficult calls, communication), highlight relevant soft skills (calmness, empathy, critical thinking), and prepare questions about training/shifts, while dressing professionally and demonstrating excellent communication. Be ready to discuss technical familiarity (CAD, radio) and showcase your ability to learn quickly, as honesty and a positive attitude are key. 

Do you have to take a lie detector test to be a 911 dispatcher?

The hiring process for 911 dispatchers

The hiring process for emergency dispatchers is typically lengthy — including an initial screening, skills assessments, panel interviews, background checks, and even psychological assessments, polygraph tests, and medical exams.

Is the CritiCall test hard to pass?

Candidates above the 60th percentile have a 76% success rate, while those below the 20th succeed only 35%. Your score is a reliable indicator of on-the-job performance.

What are three cons to being a 911 dispatcher?

Since emergencies are unplanned events, you'll most likely work weekends and holidays. Additionally, the work is physically taxing, and dispatchers often experience back pain and eyestrain as a result of sitting and looking at computer screens for hours on end.

How much do 911 operators make a year?

£713 (GBP)/yr. The average dispatcher 911 gross salary in London, United Kingdom is £50,193 or an equivalent hourly rate of £24. This is 30% higher (+£11,602) than the average dispatcher 911 salary in United Kingdom. In addition, they earn an average bonus of £713.

How much does the CritiCall exam cost?

CritiCall Pre-Employment Testing

Results are available immediately at the completion of the test. CritiCall results of 73 or higher is passing; results below 73 do not qualify. This test is approximately 1.5 hours. The cost for the CritiCall exam will be $75 due at the time of registration.

What is the highest paid 911 operator?

The highest-paid 911 dispatchers are typically in California, particularly in high-cost-of-living areas like San Mateo County, San Jose, and the San Francisco Bay Area, with potential earnings reaching over $90,000-$100,000 annually, often working for specialized county or city public safety agencies, while other states like Washington and Alaska also offer competitive wages, but California consistently leads. 

What personality type is a good dispatcher?

Resourcefulness, extraversion, and reliability are a few of the personality traits of a good dispatcher. Transportation dispatchers talk to others over the phone or using other communications equipment, like CB radios, so strong interpersonal skills are a must.

How many calls do 911 dispatchers get a day?

There are also over 3,000 counties that have their own 911 call centers. Each PSAP and each county is tied in to its own system and only handles calls from its designated area. In an average year, around 240 million 911 calls are made in the U.S.2 That averages out to over 600,000 calls per day.

Can you make 6 figures as a 911 dispatcher?

While ZipRecruiter is seeing salaries as high as $75,426 and as low as $25,322, the majority of Entry Level 911 Dispatcher salaries currently range between $38,300 (25th percentile) to $53,300 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $65,189 annually in Los Angeles.

How easy is the 911 dispatcher test?

The CritiCall is considered a hard exam since it simulates some of the difficult tasks that dispatchers need to do on the job. Test-takers with no dispatch experience will likely find the test harder, but prior preparation can help improve your performance and test score.

What type of dispatcher makes the most money?

High Paying Transportation Dispatcher Jobs

• Chief Dispatcher. Salary range: $45,500 - $101,000. ...
• Freight Dispatcher. Salary range: $42,500 - $73,500. ...
• Dispatch Coordinator. Salary range: $37,500 - $69,000. ...
• Radio Dispatcher. Salary range: $38,000 - $60,000. ...
• Dispatch Associate. ...
• Intermodal Dispatcher. ...
• Truck Dispatcher. ...
• Routing Clerk.

Do 911 dispatchers get days off?

Days off are bid for 2-4 months in advance. Working holidays is a part of the entire public safety profession.

What's the difference between a 911 operator and a dispatcher?

911 Operators gather critical information and prioritize calls for service while keeping callers calm and safe. Dispatchers manage calls for service while delegating these calls to officers and sending additional resources needed for the various situations they encounter.

Do you have to be a fast typer to be a 911 dispatcher?

Most 911 telecommunicators are required to type between 30 – 45 WPM without errors.