LAFD FCA

The FCA is a required, four-hour, computer-based test that is one of the initial steps in the City of Los Angeles Firefighter selection process. A passing score is required for your application to be valid. Candidates with a passing score from 2016, 2018, 2020, 2022, or 2023 do not need to retake it.

It evaluates general aptitude: your ability to quickly learn new material, your reasoning, your comprehension of written and audio information, and your basic arithmetic. Expect a mix of reading and listening tasks plus problem-solving and calculation items rather than firefighting technical knowledge.

The FCA is a four-hour, computer-based test. The cost is $76. Plan to use the full four hours, and budget for the fee when you register. Both the FCA exam and the Firefighter I application open on March 3, 2026.

You may only take the FCA one time during the 2026 testing window. If you do not achieve a passing score during the 2026 testing period, you are encouraged to re-apply the next time the Firefighter job application is open. Treat the single attempt as your only shot and prepare accordingly.

If you previously achieved a passing score on the FCA from 2016, 2018, 2020, 2022, or 2023, you must still submit a City application, but you do not need to retake the FCA. For previous FCA score inquiries, email [email protected].

The FCA measures aptitude rather than memorized fire knowledge, so the main risks are underestimating the audio comprehension sections, running out of time on arithmetic, and skipping practice on learning-speed tasks. Because only one attempt is allowed in 2026, weak spots in any of the four areas are costly.

Start with a diagnostic pass over all four areas: learning speed, reasoning, written and audio comprehension, and arithmetic. Then spend most time on your weakest area. Practice listening tasks without replaying audio, do arithmetic without a calculator, and finish with full-length timed practice so four hours of concentration feels routine.

If testing accommodations are needed, email [email protected]. Do not schedule your test appointment until you have been contacted by the COLA Ops team. For questions or technical assistance, contact Talogy Technical Support at 877-449-8378 or [email protected].

For general questions, email [email protected]. For technical assistance, contact Talogy Technical Support at 877-449-8378 or [email protected]; support hours are weekdays 7 AM to 10 PM EST and Saturday and Sunday 8 AM to 5 PM EST.

A passing FCA score makes your application eligible for the next phase of the selection process. Later phases include an interview weighted 100% with a minimum passing score of 70, a Pre-Employment Assessment requiring proof of the Biddle Physical Agility Test and an EMT license, a background investigation, and medical and psychological evaluations.