What is the passing score?

It depends on the agency. Each agency sets its own passing scores for the sections it chooses, so ask the agency you're applying to.

Does every agency use CritiCall?

No. Some use other tests, like the POST dispatcher test in California.

Pre-Employment Testing

CritiCall Test: What It Is and How to Prepare

CritiCall is the test that stands between a lot of applicants and a 911 dispatch career. Here's what's on it, how agencies use it, and how to practice, from a team of current and former 911 dispatchers.

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What is CritiCall?

CritiCall is a computer-based pre-employment test for 911 dispatchers and call-takers, made by Biddle Consulting Group and used by more than 1,800 public safety agencies. You'll usually wear a headset for the audio sections and use a keyboard and mouse.

The part most applicants don't know: every agency picks its own sections and sets its own passing scores. Two agencies can both "use CritiCall" and give completely different tests. Always ask the agency which sections you'll take.

Sections You Might See

Data entry and typing

Keying spoken or written information, like names, addresses, plates, and VINs, into fields quickly and accurately.

Multitasking and decision-making

Making dispatch decisions while handling another task on screen at the same time.

Memory recall

Remembering details you just read or heard, and sometimes ones from earlier in the test.

Map reading

Finding the most direct route on a grid map

Reading and spelling

Short reading comprehension, choosing the clearest sentence, and commonly misspelled words.

Call summarization

Listening to a recorded call and typing up what matters, without the extra noise.

Cross-referencing

Spotting matches and differences in letters, numbers, and lists, fast.

Basic math and probability

Job-related addition, subtraction, and percentages, plus picking the most likely answer from incomplete information.

Practice With Us (Free)

Our CritiCall Test Prep playlist walks you through the kinds of sections agencies use, with practice you can do right along with the video. Pause, type, and replay as many times as you need.

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Want full-length practice tests?

JobTestPrep has full CritiCall-style practice tests for every section, so you can find your weak spots before test day.

This is an affiliate link. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Test Day Checklist

Find out if it's in person or remote, and what equipment you need.
Expect a headset for the audio sections.
Read every instruction screen. Small details like Num Lock or all caps can matter.
Sleep, eat, and show up early. It's a long stretch of focus.

FAQ

A computer-based pre-employment test for 911 dispatchers and call-takers, made by Biddle Consulting Group and used by more than 1,800 public safety agencies.
It depends on the agency. Each agency sets its own passing scores for the sections it chooses, so ask the agency you're applying to.
No. Some use other tests, like the POST dispatcher test in California.