Free CritiCall Practice Test: 49 Sample Questions & Answers to Help You Ace Your 911 Dispatcher Test
Ready to test your skills as a potential 911 dispatcher?
This free CritiCall practice test features 49 sample questions designed to mimic the challenges you’ll face on the real exam.
Covering key modules, this test is a valuable tool for anyone preparing for a 911 dispatcher or 911 operator role.
Let’s get started!
List of the CritiCall Test Modules (Click to Practice a Specific Section)
Visit this page to get 120+ realistic practice tests covering the most common CritiCall test modules.
Each agency and department chooses which modules to use for its CritiCall test from the list above. You will NOT be tested on all of the modules.
That being said, hiring departments usually don’t disclose which modules are being used. So to be on the safe side, it’s better to practice for all of the modules listed above.
A note about multitasking on the CritiCall:
Several test modules come with a multitasking feature. When this feature is on, you’ll need to respond to emergency messages in addition to completing the tasks required by the module. Failing to respond to such a message will result in a lower score.
On the actual test, each module’s instructions will mention if you get these emergency messages. So, you’ll be able to be more alert and prepared to respond to these messages.
CritiCall Call Summarization
This module simulates the fundamental tasks of a 911 dispatcher and 911 operator – taking calls, understanding what’s being said, and responding accordingly.
In this module, you’ll need to listen to several recordings, enter the details given in their proper boxes (phone number, address, name, license plate, etc.), and then answer follow-up questions about what you heard.
You’ll be able to enter notes in a dedicated box on the screen. Both the notes and the given details will be available to you while answering the follow-up questions.
This module comes in two versions:
- Short version – recordings of fictional short stories about daily occurrences with family members, friends, work, etc.
- Long version – recordings of fictional 911 calls in which the caller describes a crime or incident they have witnessed or gone through.
Take the following practice questions to get a feel for this module. Note: try to listen to the recordings only once, as on the real test you’ll have only one opportunity as well.
Short Version – Sample Question #1
Which of the following best describes this recording?
A. A safety hazard report
B. A request for additional supplies
C. A report of a missing item
D. An announcement of a new workplace policy
Short Version – Sample Question #2
Which of the following best describes this recording?
A. A report of a medical emergency
B. A request for assistance with a family member
C. An inquiry about a change in plans
D. A complaint about travel disruptions
Long Version – Sample Question #1
What was the color of the car that fled the scene?
A. Red
B. Blue
C. Silver
D. Black
What type of damage did the parked car sustain?
A. A flat tire
B. A dented bumper
C. A smashed back window
D. Total destruction
What information did the caller provide about the license plate of the fleeing car?
A. The license plate number started with “B4123.”
B. The license plate was completely unreadable.
C. The license plate possibly started with “B4” or “G4.”
D. The license plate information was not mentioned.
Long Version – Sample Question #2
How did the suspect likely gain entry to the house?
A. By picking the front door lock
B. By smashing a back window
C. Through an unlocked garage door
D. It’s unclear how the suspect entered
What makes the caller believe a crime is occurring?
A. They heard a loud argument.
B. They know the neighbors are away.
C. They recognize the suspect.
D. They saw someone bleeding on the ground.
What detail does the caller provide about the suspect’s appearance?
A. He has short, dark hair.
B. He is carrying a crowbar.
C. He is wearing a dark blue hoodie.
D. He is approximately in his 30s.
What is an immediate concern for the caller?
A. The suspect might be armed.
B. The police might not arrive in time.
C. The suspect might have seen the caller witnessing the break-in.
D. The neighbors might not have home insurance
Visit this page to get 13 additional CritiCall Call Summarization practice tests.
Tips for Answering Call Summarization Questions
- Focus on the Core Issue: Don’t get distracted by unnecessary details. Try to identify the main problem the caller is reporting (accident, theft, medical emergency, etc.).
- Don’t Rely on Memory: Jot down key facts and details as you listen, even if they seem minor at the time. These notes become essential for answering follow-up questions.
- Develop a System: Use abbreviations to take faster notes. Having a consistent system helps you organize information quickly.
- Focus on Facts: Avoid interpreting the call. Stick to summarizing the information provided by the caller as accurately as possible.
- Sample Tests: Practice with sample CritiCall questions and audio recordings. This improves your active listening and helps you pick up on important details quickly.
CritiCall Decision-Making
In this module, you’ll need to respond to emergency messages based on the following instructions:
Question #1
Which unit would you assign?
A woman reports hearing loud explosions and seeing smoke coming from a nearby building.
A. Police
B. Fire
C. EMS
D. Utility
Question #2
Which unit would you assign?
A man calls stating he’s been locked out of his car with his dog inside, and the temperatures are rising rapidly.
A. Police
B. Fire
C. EMS
D. Utility
Question #3
Which unit would you assign?
A caller reports a strong smell of gas coming from their basement.
A. Police
B. Fire
C. EMS
D. Utility
Question #4
Which unit would you assign?
A person reports witnessing a physical altercation escalating in a public park.
A. Police
B. Fire
C. EMS
D. Park Rangers
Question #5
Which unit would you assign?
A panicked caller reports their neighbor’s house alarm is sounding, and they see someone running from the back of the property.
A. Police
B. Fire
C. EMS
D. Homeowner
Question #6
Which unit would you assign?
A caller reports finding an unconscious person lying on a sidewalk.
A. Police
B. Fire
C. EMS
D. Utility
Note: These decision-making questions are usually not given as a standalone module. They will often be part of other test modules, and appear as pop-ups at the bottom of the screen. You’ll have only 15 seconds to choose a response while completing other tasks on the module.
Tips for Answering Decision-Making Questions
- Be familiar with agency roles. Have a general understanding of the types of situations police, fire, EMS, utility companies, and other specialized units typically handle. Most hiring departments will provide you with a set of clear instructions before you start the CritiCall test.
- Identify the Core Issue: Dissect the situation to pinpoint the primary problem. Is someone injured? Is there a fire or safety hazard? Is a potential crime in progress? This will guide you to the correct service.
- Think Safety First: If there’s any indication of immediate danger to life or property, prioritize emergency services like fire or police, even if the situation might have other components.
- Trust your instincts. CritiCall questions are designed to test your quick decision-making ability. If an answer feels overwhelmingly correct, don’t second-guess yourself.
CritiCall Data Entry
This module measures your ability to enter data you see or hear (depending if it is the written or audio version) into the proper fields on your screen. You’re not allowed to use abbreviations.
On the audio version, you’ll be graded on the accuracy of the data you enter into the correct boxes. On the written version, you’ll also be graded on your data entry speed.
Written
Here’s a realistic illustration of how this will look on the actual test:
Audio
Listen to the following audio recording, and write down the details you hear on a piece of paper. Then, look at the answer to see if you got everything correct.
Please listen to the recording only once, as on the actual test you’ll also have only one chance.
Visit this page to take 11 additional CritiCall Data Entry practice tests (Written & Audio).
Dispatcher Typing Test
Visit this official sample test to practice the 911 Dispatcher typing test (also known as the keyboarding test). It is a replica of the actual test, so it will give you a good idea of what to expect.
Also, Check our dispatcher typing test guide for more insights, tips, and practice resources.
CritiCall Map Reading
The CritiCall map reading module measures your ability to use a map to determine the direction of travel. In the upper corner of each map, you’ll have a compass that indicates direction: N for North, E for East, S for South, and W for West.
Using the compass as a guide, you should choose the directions asked for in the questions from the four alternatives provided.
Question #1
A fire engine leaves the intersection of Third and Downhill and travels south for two blocks. It turns west and travels west for two blocks. At what intersection does the fire engine complete the trip?
- Second and High
- Fourth and Low
- First and Polk
- Second and Low
Question #2
You are next to the Taxi station, driving west on Wilde St. What is the most direct route from your location to the Parkdale Rd entrance of the dental clinic?
- Keep driving west till you reach Schmidt Crescent and turn left. Go south to Casimir Ave. Go east and take the first turn left to Sprouce St. Follow the road and turn left back to Casimir Ave. Go East on Casimir Ave. to the Dental Clinic.
- Go west. Turn left to Schmidt Crescent and then take the first turn right to Casimir Ave. Keep west to reach the dental clinic.
- Drive west and turn to Schmidt Crescent. Go south and turn east to Casimir Ave. Go east and take the first turn right to Parkdale Rd. Follow the road to reach the dental clinic entrance which will be to your right.
- Go west to Schmidt Crescent. Drive south and pass the Casimit Ave. intersection. Turn left on Dingwall Pkwy. Then turn right to reach the clinic.
Tips for Answering CritiCall Map Reading Questions
- Identify the starting point, the destination, and any specific instructions or restrictions mentioned in the question.
- If an answer choice involves a route that goes in the wrong direction or takes you away from the destination, eliminate it immediately. This narrows down your options.
- Use your finger to trace potential routes on the map. This can help visualize directions and avoid confusion.
- When choosing the correct answer, you must obey the “one-way” and “two-way” traffic signs.
CritiCall Cross-Referencing
Answer the following questions based on the information in this table:
Last Name | First Name | Address | Phone Number | VIN | License Plate |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Johnson | Melissa | 145 Oak Lane | (212) 555-1234 | 1N4AL3AP5EC458632 | ABC123 |
Williams | David | 890 Maple Street | (404) 987-6543 | 5XYZT3LB5FG287509 | DEF456 |
Patel | Maya | 23 Elm Boulevard | (617) 345-1298 | 2T3Y1KE27DC116975 | GHI789 |
Garcia | Sofia | 567 Pine Avenue | (305) 765-4321 | 2G4WS55J061394470 | JKL012 |
Miller | Ethan | 901 Birch Street | (510) 246-8013 | 5J8BT4H31GL224105 | MNO345 |
Davis | Olivia | 321 Sunset Drive | (773) 567-8901 | 1FTFW1E54AF804967 | PQR678 |
Thompson | Noah | 789 Elm Street | (206) 321-0987 | 4T1BG22K21U870884 | STU901 |
Brown | Emily | 456 Main Street | (858) 678-9012 | 1G6AJ5S68F0973101 | VWX234 |
Wilson | Jacob | 123 Park Avenue | (310) 890-1234 | 3N1AB7AP2EL576107 | YZA567 |
Taylor | Isabella | 678 Oak Street | (919) 456-7890 | 5FNRL3H40CB969170 | BCD345 |
Moore | Alexander | 910 Maple Drive | (602) 102-3456 | 1GYS4KEF8DR606302 | EFG678 |
Jackson | Charlotte | 246 Elm Avenue | (415) 910-2345 | 2HKRL41333K469588 | HIJ901 |
Question #1
What is the address of the person with the phone number ending in 6543?
A. 145 Oak Lane
B. 890 Maple Street
C. 23 Elm Boulevard
D. 901 Birch Street
Question #2
What is the first name of the person whose VIN begins with “3N1”?
A. Charlotte
B. Jacob
C. Olivia
D. Noah
Question #3
What is the last name of the person living on Birch Street?
A. Johnson
B. Williams
C. Miller
D. Garcia
Question #4
What is the phone number of the person whose license plate starts with “JKL”?
A. (212) 555-1234
B. (404) 987-6543
C. (305) 765-4321
D. (510) 246-8013
CritiCall Prioritization
911 dispatchers must prioritize numerous incidents and make tough decisions throughout their shifts. The following module evaluates your ability to prioritize between two fictional (but very realistic) scenarios and decide which one is more urgent.
Question #1
Which situation is more urgent?
- A caller reports a car swerving dangerously through traffic, almost hitting several pedestrians. The caller is actively following the vehicle and can provide updates on its location.
- A woman reports seeing flames and smoke coming from the roof of her neighbor’s house. She believes the neighbors are away on vacation.
Question #2
Which situation is more urgent?
- A store clerk reports an angry customer yelling and threatening staff members. The customer is refusing to leave the premises.
- A frantic caller reports hearing gunshots nearby. They don’t know the exact source of the gunfire, but people are screaming and running.
Question #3
Which situation is more urgent?
- A man reports finding his elderly father unconscious on the bathroom floor. The father has a history of heart problems.
- A daycare worker reports that a child has been stung by a bee and is having trouble breathing. The child has no known allergies.
Question #4
Which situation is more urgent?
- A resident reports loud music and shouting coming from a neighboring apartment late at night. This has been an ongoing issue for several weeks.
- A caller reports their car being rear-ended at a stoplight. There are minor injuries, and both vehicles are blocking traffic.
Question #5
Which situation is more urgent?
- A caller reports finding a stray dog wandering in a busy intersection. The dog appears uninjured but is causing traffic disruptions.
- A man reports feeling lightheaded and dizzy after working outside in the heat for several hours. He is sitting in the shade and has had some water.
Tips for Answering CritiCall Prioritization Questions
- Life-Threatening First: Prioritize answers indicating immediate danger to life (assaults, active fires, medical emergencies) over property damage or non-emergency situations.
- Look for Clues: Pay attention to words that convey urgency like “unconscious,” “bleeding,” “can’t breathe,” “gun,” “fire,” or “help.”
- Stay Objective: Don’t let personal biases or emotional responses cloud your judgment. Focus on the facts presented in each scenario.
- Potential for Escalation: Consider situations that could quickly worsen, such as a minor traffic accident blocking a busy intersection, or an escalating argument.
- Focus on Tricky Scenarios: Seek out questions where the urgency isn’t immediately obvious; this helps you develop the critical thinking skills needed for the test.
Visit this page to get 120+ realistic practice tests covering the most common CritiCall test modules.
CritiCall Reading Comprehension
Passage 1
Effective communication is essential in any workplace. When conflicts arise, it’s important to address them directly and professionally. Avoid gossiping or complaining to colleagues who aren’t involved in the situation. Instead, focus on constructive problem-solving. If needed, discuss the issue privately with the person involved or seek guidance from a supervisor. Remember, a positive and collaborative work environment benefits everyone.
Question 1
According to the passage, what is the best way to handle a workplace conflict?
A. Ignore the problem and hope it resolves itself.
B. Discuss the issue openly with those involved.
C. Vent to uninvolved coworkers about the situation.
D. Immediately report the issue to a higher authority.
Question 2
The passage emphasizes that a positive work environment is:
A. Only possible in small workplaces.
B. The responsibility of management.
C. Advantageous for all employees.
D. Unlikely to be achieved in most jobs.
Passage 2
Emergency vehicle operation requires specialized training and awareness. When driving with lights and sirens, remember you are requesting the right of way, not demanding it. Other drivers may not see or hear you immediately. Proceed through intersections cautiously, even if you have a green light. Always prioritize safety over speed, and be prepared to yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Question 1
The main purpose of this passage is to:
A. Describe the legal rights of emergency vehicles.
B. Remind personnel of safe driving practices.
C. Outline procedures for approaching intersections.
D. Explain how to use lights and sirens effectively.
Question 2
Based on the passage, which statement is true?
A. Emergency vehicles always have the right-of-way.
B. Pedestrians should yield to emergency vehicles, even at crosswalks.
C. Speed is the most important factor in emergency response.
D. Caution is necessary, even with lights and sirens activated.
Passage 3
During a structure fire, always call for backup before entering a burning building. Establish clear communication with teams outside the structure. When searching for victims inside a smoke-filled environment, stay low and move systematically. Use walls or furniture for orientation if visibility is severely reduced. If you become disoriented, signal for assistance and follow the hose line back to safety.
Question 1
According to the passage, what is the FIRST action to take upon arriving at a structure fire?
A. Begin searching for victims on the ground floor.
B. Turn off the gas supply to the structure.
C. Call for backup personnel and support.
D. Assess the safest point of entry.
CritiCall Sentence Clarity
In this module, you’ll see two short passages and you’ll need to choose which one is more clearly written.
Question #1
Choose the passage below that is most clear:
A. The homeowner claimed that someone had broken into the house and stolen her laptop.
B. Someone, the homeowner claimed, had broken into the house and stolen her laptop.
Question #2
Choose the passage below that is most clear:
A. We will begin the investigation following the suspect as soon as we identify his location.
B. As soon as we identify the suspect’s location, we will begin the investigation and follow him.
Question #3
Choose the passage below that is most clear:
A. To receive a discount on the parking ticket, you should contest the fine by mail within 15 days of its issue date.
B. You should contest the fine by mail, to receive a discount on the parking ticket, within 15 days of when it was issued.
Question #4
Choose the passage below that is most clear:
A. The dog, which was wearing a red collar with no tags, wandered past the store this afternoon.
B. This afternoon, a dog wearing a red collar without tags wandered past the store.
Question #5
Choose the passage below that is most clear:
A. After completing the training and passing the exam, you must take an oath of office to be a sworn officer.
B. To be a sworn officer, you must take an oath of office after you pass the exam and complete the training.
CritiCall Mathematics
This module is designed to test your ability to solve simple, job-related math problems dealing with numbers and amounts.
Question 1
An officer responds to a burglary call where several electronics were stolen. The estimated value of the stolen items is as follows: a laptop worth $850, a television worth $475, and a gaming console worth $320. What is the total estimated value of the stolen goods?
A. $1545
B. $1645
C. $1745
D. $1845
Question 2
A dispatcher receives information about a missing child last seen wearing a blue shirt. If there are 16 children in the nearby park, but only 4 are wearing blue shirts, what percentage of the children at the park match a part of the description?
A. 20%
B. 25%
C. 30%
D. 50%
Question 3
A crime scene perimeter is secured using 180 feet of yellow tape. If the scene is a perfect square, what is the length of each side of the square?
A. 90feet
B. 60 feet
C. 45 feet
D. 30 feet
CritiCall Character Comparison
This module is designed to test your ability to correctly choose which of the four alternatives is exactly the same as the target.
Question #1
From the alternatives below, choose the one which is exactly the same as:
PQW0992388RT6
A. PQW0992388TR6
B. PQW0993288RT6
C. PQW0992388RT6
D. PQW0992388RT9
Question #2
From the alternatives below, choose the one which is exactly the same as:
3216B7784319 OAKILV
A. 3216B7784319 0AKILV
B. 3216B7784139 OAK1LV
C. 321B67784319 OAKILU
D. 3216B7784319 OAKILV
Question #3
Determine which of the options is an exact copy of:
AB12CD34EF5GH6I
A. AB12CD34EF5GH6I
B. AB12CD34EFG5H6I
C. AB12CD43EF5GH6I
D. AB12CD34EF5GH6J
Tips for answering CritiCall Character Comparison Questions
- Scan methodically: Go letter by letter, number by number. Don’t let your eyes jump around.
- Use a Tool: If allowed, use a finger, pencil, or piece of paper to track your place as you compare.
- Double-Check: Once you find a potential match, recheck it to confirm before selecting your answer.
Visit this page to take 120+ accurate practice tests covering the most common CritiCall test modules.
CritiCall Memory Recall
This module tests your ability to remember (1) combinations of letters and numbers, such as license plates, and (2) a series of numbers, such as phone numbers.
In this module, you’re not allowed to write down any information or take any notes. If one of the proctors notices that you do so, it will result in immediate failure of the entire test.
Sample Question #1 (Numbers and Letters)
Sample Question #2 (Numbers)
CritiCall Spelling
This section includes fill-in-the-blank questions that you must answer by entering a missing word with its correct spelling in the blank provided. The missing word will be played in a recording.
Sample Question #1
It is ________ that you bring the papers with you.
Sample Question #2
He became an ___________ at a very young age.
CritiCall Probability
This section tests your ability to apply the “Law of Probability” based on how frequently information is supplied.
You’ll need to look at the four different alternatives and choose which of the four is the most likely correct response based on the information provided.
Question #1
A caller reports someone breaking into their neighbor’s car. Four witnesses offer descriptions of the suspect:
- Witness #1: Male, approximately 6 feet tall, wearing a red hoodie, last seen running west.
- Witness #2: Male, wearing dark clothing, carrying a backpack, last seen running south.
- Witness #3: Male, average build, wearing a red hoodie, last seen running west.
- Witness #4: Male, wearing a red hoodie, carrying a backpack, last seen running north.
Based on these descriptions, which detail is MOST LIKELY to be accurate?
A. The suspect is 6 feet tall.
B. The suspect is carrying a backpack.
C. The suspect is wearing a red hoodie.
D. The suspect was running west.
Question #2
An elderly woman is reported missing. Here are tips received from different callers:
- Caller #1: The woman was seen at the grocery store yesterday afternoon.
- Caller #2: The woman sometimes takes walks in the nearby park.
- Caller #3: The woman got on a bus headed north about an hour ago.
- Caller #4: The woman was seen at the park this morning.
Where is the MOST LIKELY place to begin the search for the woman?
A. The grocery store
B. The park
C. The bus route heading north
D. There isn’t enough information
Tips for Answering CritiCall Probability Questions
- Identify Patterns: Look for the details that are mentioned most frequently in the witness reports or descriptions. The most recurring element is often the most likely to be accurate.
- Unique vs. General: Pay extra attention to specific details like tattoos, damaged car parts, or unusual clothing items. These are more likely to be accurate identifiers than general descriptions like “tall man” or “dark car.”
- Beware of Bias: Be wary of descriptions relying on stereotypes or personal judgments rather than specific details.
- If Unsure, Go with the Majority: If two details seem equally possible, the one mentioned more often has a slightly higher probability of being correct.
The End
Congratulations on completing this free CritiCall practice test!
Now, hopefully, you have a better understanding of what to expect in the different modules and you know what are your stronger and weaker areas.
To continue practicing, improving your dispatcher skills, and increasing your chances of scoring high, visit this excellent practice resource.
It includes 125 practice tests that resemble the actual CritiCall modules, study guides, and detailed explanations, all geared toward helping you score high and ace the test.