Is the 911 dispatcher test hard?

The Dispatcher test is considered a hard exam since it simulates the challenging tasks of actual 911 dispatchers. Also, since most candidates take the exam without any prior dispatch experience, they're often overwhelmed by its unique sections, such as multitasking, call summarization, and more.


How to pass 911 dispatcher test?

How to Prepare for Your Test
  1. Practice Typing Skills. Speed and accuracy in typing is a necessary skill for a 911 dispatcher and is something you can practice at home. ...
  2. Practice Map Reading. ...
  3. Practice Similar Tests. ...
  4. Answer All the Questions. ...
  5. Learn the Decision-Making Rules. ...
  6. Download the CritiCall Candidate Prep Pack.


Is it hard being 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.


What is a good score on a dispatcher test?

If an applicant's score is 40 or below, his/her performance is considered “below average” when compared to other applicants who have taken the test. If an applicant's score is 60 or above, his/her performance is considered “above average” when compared to other applicants who have taken the test.

How hard is it to pass the CritiCall 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.


I Tried 911 Dispatch



Is there math on the Criticall test?

Each test segment aims to evaluate your competency as a 911 dispatcher. You will complete modules on math, reading, and spelling skills. In addition to these skills, you will also need to prove that you have mastered more specific tasks, like decision-making, memory recall, multitasking, data entry, and map reading.

What is a passing Criticall score?

To pass, you will need to achieve 60 keystrokes per minute for data entry and multi-tasking, 28 keystrokes per minute on audio data entry and multi-tasking and 35 words per minute on keyboarding. The pass mark for most parts of the test is 70%, however, this is 60% for the Reading Comprehension element.

Do 911 dispatchers have to type fast?

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. To prepare, you will want to practice typing for at least 5 minutes.


How long is the typing test for 911 dispatcher?

Free 911 Operator Typing Test

Be prepared that the real test will likely be around five minutes. Click the refresh button in your browser to restart the test with a new passage each time.

What kind of dispatcher makes the most money?

High Paying Transportation Dispatcher Jobs
  • Radio Dispatcher. Salary range: $35,000-$77,000 per year. ...
  • Intermodal Dispatcher. Salary range: $37,500-$50,000 per year. ...
  • Truck Dispatcher. Salary range: $34,000-$48,500 per year. ...
  • Operations Dispatcher. ...
  • Freight Dispatcher. ...
  • Service Dispatcher. ...
  • Dispatch Coordinator. ...
  • Dispatcher.


Why do 911 dispatchers quit?

Those that quit during dispatcher training cite not being able to handle the “rapid pace of the job and the responsibility of having someone's lives in their hands.” The hours are long, and there is mandatory overtime; working during emergencies and on holidays is often required as dispatchers are needed 365 days out ...


What is the average age of a 911 dispatcher?

The average age of an employed 911 emergency dispatcher is 39 years old. The most common ethnicity of 911 emergency dispatchers is White (78.0%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (9.3%), Black or African American (8.3%) and Unknown (2.7%).

Which state pays 911 dispatchers the most?

The highest-paid state for dispatchers is Alaska with an average salary of $46,570 per year.

What to expect on a 911 dispatcher test?

The Dispatcher exam usually consists of more than 10 test sections that evaluate different areas of aptitude. These areas include typing, listening, reading, setting priorities, speech recognition, memory, map reading, spatial orientation, and more.


How is a dispatcher test graded?

If you score 40 or below, your performance is considered “below average” when compared to other candidates who have taken the same test. If you score 60 or above, your performance is considered “above average” when compared to other candidates who have taken the same test.

What are the cons of being a 911 dispatcher?

There can be many benefits that come with being a 911 operator; great pay, creditable health insurance, and unique experiences. However, long work hours, burnout, and health issues are some potential downsides.

How do you pass a typing test score?

How To Practice For A Typing Test
  1. Learn To Touch Type If You Don't Already Know How. ...
  2. Check Your Equipment. ...
  3. Practice In The Same Position As You Will Take The Test. ...
  4. Take Targeted Practice. ...
  5. Track Your Progress. ...
  6. On The Day Of The Test. ...
  7. Get Strategic When You're Practicing For A Typing Test.


What is the minimum speed for a typing test?

Thus, you should aim for a typing speed of at least 40 WPM to keep up a standard level of efficiency at work. For some professions, the standards are higher. To land a job as a personal or executive assistant, you might be required to type at least 60 words per minute.

How many WPM do you need to pass a typing test?

The average typing speed is around 40 words per minute (wpm). If you want to be very productive, you should aim for a typing speed of 65 to 70 words per minute. It's easy with the right technique!

Do dispatchers get PTSD?

PTSD can occur even when the exposure to stress is indirect, as it is in the case of 9-1-1 dispatchers. While we recognize PTSD as “shell shock” in our nation's veterans, large percentages of first responders also acquire PTSD as a result of job stress.


Can you get PTSD from being a 911 dispatcher?

It is not unusual for 911 operators to suffer from duty-related traumatic stress. Dispatchers have been found to be at risk for post-traumatic stress disorder just as much as their colleagues in the police or fire department.

What should I wear to a dispatcher interview?

Interview Attire

You can't go wrong by wearing a conservative suit in a dark color with a coordinating blouse or shirt. When you look good, you feel good, which is why smartly dressed job applicants exude confidence. Interviewing for a dispatcher job is no different than interviewing for an accountant position.

How long does it take to get CritiCall test results?

The Criticall testing process will take on average between one and three hours to complete.


How do you know if you failed the CritiCall test?

There are three common ways to know if you passed or failed the CritiCall: (1) receiving a score report with your scoring breakdown, (2) getting a call from the agency inviting you to the next hiring step, (3) getting a failure message while you're taking the test or right afterward.

What qualities does a 911 dispatcher need?

Police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers should also possess the following specific qualities:
  • Ability to multitask. Responding to an emergency over the phone can be stressful. ...
  • Communication skills. ...
  • Decision-making skills. ...
  • Empathy. ...
  • Listening skills.