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Top-Rated CHP Dispatcher Test Prep[2024]: Free Practice Tests, Study Guides & Exam Prep

Realistic Practice Tests | Practice Test for Each Section | Bonus Modules
Bestseller
4.4
110 Reviews|260 Students|Last Updated: Jul 25, 2024

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is a vital part of the state’s emergency response system. They rely on highly trained professionals to coordinate emergency responses and ensure public safety. In 2024, the CHP will continue evolving to meet California’s growing population and infrastructure demands.

As the first point of contact for emergency responders, 911 dispatchers ensure timely and effective emergency responses. They handle thousands of calls daily, requiring exceptional communication, situational awareness, and technical skills. Becoming a CHP emergency dispatcher is a challenging yet rewarding career path.

That’s where our Prep Course comes in. Designed to prepare you for the challenges of becoming a CHP dispatcher, we cover essential topics and provide a realistic simulation of the actual CHP dispatcher written exam. You’ll also get access to bonus lessons that cover interview questions and tips to help you clear the remaining rounds after the written test.

Take a Free CHP Dispatcher Practice Test Now!

Get instant result and see how prepared you are for the CHP dispatcher exam..
10 Questions - 8 Minutes

About the CHP Emergency Dispatcher Test

For CHP 911 operator hiring, the CritiCall test is used – the most popular emergency dispatcher test. It’s designed to test almost every skill needed for the role. This exam identifies candidates with the aptitude to handle the complex, high-pressure environment of emergency dispatch centers.

The test covers essential skills like multitasking, short-term and long-term memory recall, prioritization, and call summarization—everything a dispatcher deals with daily. It also evaluates decision-making by presenting simulated emergencies while you’re in the middle of other important tasks, requiring you to decide whether to complete the current task, attend to the emergency, or manage both under strict time constraints.

Questions can be in any form like multiple-choice or data entry. There’s even a topic on vocalization where you record your answers. In short, this exam thoroughly tests your abilities, and yes, it’s not easy.

Success Stories
4.4
110 Reviews

5.0
Very extensive
At first, I looked at the modules and was overwhelmed. I purchased just a week's subscription, and there was so much to cover. I previously bought another provider's course, which was really short and had just 5-10 practice quizzes. This one has nearly 100, I'd say—each topic has about 3 of them. Make sure you have enough time to practice because it's extensive, but totally worth it. I felt way more prepared with this course[...]Show Less
Name: Chris Miller
Email: **************@gmail.com
3.0
One week not enough
I appreciate the depth of this course; it's really thorough and covers everything you need to know. However, one week is definitely not enough time to get through all the material and practice tests. I initially bought a week's subscription and quickly realized I needed more time. If you're considering this course, I recommend buying at least a month. It’s great, but you’ll need ample time to really benefit from it.[...]Show Less
Name: Jason Smith
Email: ***********@email.com
5.0
Great course
There is a call summarization section in the exam, and trust me, it is tough. These guys make it really easy. There are around 30-40 audio calls that really get you familiar and comfortable with these questions. This course is a must-buy for anyone who is serious about passing the exam![...]Show Less
Name: Lisa Turner
Email: ************@rediffmail.com
5.0
Professional Team
I found a problem with the typing interface; one of the questions in the easy practice test was reporting the wrong answer. I reached out to support, and they had this proof-providing process. I did, and they were really prompt and refunded me 50% as per their policy. In fairness, the course is prepared with a lot of thought and effort. I wouldn't have minded if I got no refund, but I appreciate their professionalism and dedication[...]Show Less
Name: Daniel Foster
Email: ***********@rediffmail.com
4.0
I took the test, this prep helped
The sentence clarity part of this course was surprisingly helpful. One thing I really appreciated was the real-world scenarios they used. It made the prcaticing process more relevant. However, there were a few similar questions that could use more variety. Despite that, I saw a noticeable improvement in my clarity and precision. Definitely a worthwhile part of the course[...]Show Less
Name: Rachel Adams
Email: **********@gmail.com
5.0
Very Detailed
This is it- it has so much to practice that you are sure to run out of time. I felt well-prepared and confident going into the exam. All the improtant question type were covered and the practice tests were never ending. The team were always ready to help. Highly recommend![...]Show Less
Name: Jennifer Clark
Email: **************@email.com

CHP Dispatcher Test Sample Questions

These are some of the samples questions from our CHP Dispatcher Mastery Course, showcasing how certain sections will be presented to you in the exam.

Decision Making

Question:

CHP Decision Making Sample

Options:
  • A:
  • B:
  • C:
  • D:
** Real question taken from our CHP Dispatcher Test Prep Pack

Data Entry

Question: Please listen to the audio and provide all the details for the individual listed in row 3.
** Real question taken from our CHP Dispatcher Test Prep Pack

Call Summarization

Question: Listen to the audio and answer the question that follows.

In which direction must the intruders head to escape into Elmwood alley?

Options:
  • A:

    To the front of the gallery heading into the alley

  • B:

    To the left of the gallery crossing the cabana.

  • C:

    To the front of the gallery and across the street

  • D:

    To the back of the gallery into the alley

** Real question taken from our CHP Dispatcher Test Prep Pack

Map Reading

Question: Refer to the map and answer.

You are currently in the Internet/Newspaper room on the 1st floor. You need to deliver a package to the Banquet Kitchen on the 2nd floor. However, you must first pick up a document from the Executive Office and then pass by the Restaurant before reaching your destination. Which of the following sequences of rooms or areas will you pass through to complete your task efficiently?

CHP Map Reading Sample

Options:
  • A:

    Internet/Newspaper -> Café -> Restaurant -> Lobby (1st Floor) -> Executive Office -> Stairs -> Lobby (2nd Floor) -> Conference Room 4 -> Conference Room 3 -> Ballroom B -> Banquet Kitchen

  • B:

    Internet/Newspaper -> Café -> Restaurant -> Executive Office -> Stairs -> Lobby (2nd Floor) -> Ballroom A -> Conference Room 6 -> Banquet Kitchen

  • C:

    Internet/Newspaper -> Lobby (1st Floor) -> Executive Office -> Restaurant -> Stairs -> Lobby (2nd Floor) -> Conference Room 1 -> Conference Room 2 -> Ballroom A -> Banquet Kitchen

  • D:

    Internet/Newspaper -> Lobby (1st Floor) -> Executive Office -> Restaurant -> Stairs -> Lobby (2nd Floor) -> Ballroom B -> Banquet Kitchen

** Real question taken from our CHP Dispatcher Test Prep Pack

Why Choose Our Prep Course?

Real Test Simulations: Our Data Entry & Multitasking Quizzes are made with custom functionality to mimic the original test environment, which is not available anywhere else.

Biggest Practice Quiz Bank: 50+ Quizzes for you to practice & improve your performance on the test.

Dedicated Study Guide for Each Section: 13 Study Guides for each major component of the CHP Dispatcher Exam

Bonus Modules: In order to assist you with the process, we have added additional modules such as psych eval, medical check up, background screening, etc. These will help you navigate the hiring process better.

Learn at Your Own Pace: We have practice quizzes on our course with multiple difficulty levels so you can learn from the basics & practice your way to the test level & even beyond in some cases.

Our CHP Dispatcher Mastery Modules

FAQs

A CHP dispatcher is a crucial member of the California Highway Patrol team, responsible for handling emergency  calls, dispatching patrol units, and providing critical information to officers in the field. Dispatchers play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of responses to public needs and emergencies.

There are several types of dispatchers, primarily differentiated by the services they provide, which include:
  • Police Dispatchers: Handle calls related to police services, including emergencies and law enforcement support.
  • Fire Dispatchers: Specialize in dispatching fire services and emergency medical assistance.
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Dispatchers: Focus on medical emergencies and coordinate EMS response.
  • Public Safety Dispatchers: Often trained to handle a mix of these services and may work in consolidated emergency dispatch centers.

CHP dispatchers use a variety of software to manage calls, dispatch units, and maintain communication with field officers. This includes Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems, which help track the status and location of units, and databases like the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) for accessing criminal records and other public safety information.

A CHP dispatcher is typically required to type at a minimum speed of 35 to 45 words per minute. However, higher speeds are beneficial and can enhance performance, especially in high-pressure situations where rapid response is crucial.

  • Written Test: The CHP uses the CritiCall test to evaluate the skills necessary for effective dispatch and communication roles.
  • Medical Clearance: The CHP requires all Public Safety Dispatcher applicants to undergo a medical examination, including an audiogram and drug screen, by a licensed physician.
  • Psychological Evaluation: A psychological exam will be conducted on every applicant to determine their employment suitability.
  • Background Check: Includes checks of criminal history, previous employment, and personal references.
  • Training: Comprehensive training is provided upon hiring, covering all necessary skills and protocols.

*For more details refer to the official website: https://www.chp.ca.gov/

To qualify, you need either a high school diploma (or equivalent) or at least one year of clerical experience involving significant public contact.

Some essential interview questions include:

  • Have you ever used dispatching equipment?
  • How familiar are you with this county’s criminal law?
  • If you received a call from a panicked person who was speaking unintelligibly, how would you handle it?
  • Imagine one of the truck drivers calls and informs you angrily that they have been assigned the wrong cargo. What would you do?
  • How do you feel about being constantly on the phone?
  • Tell me about a time you had to make a difficult decision when your supervisor wasn’t around.
  • Have you ever felt overwhelmed by stress? What did you do to keep performing your duties?
  • Recall a time you had to multi-task. Were you successful?
  • How do you prioritize calls during peak times?
  • Describe a situation where you had to coordinate with multiple agencies or departments.

Ready to Transform Your Future?

Score better than the competition, ace the Criticall Test & Become a CHP Dispatcher!

1 Week

$160.00$78.90

1 Month

$180.00$88.90

3 Months

$200.00$98.90

*Note: CHP, Criticall and other trademarks are the property of their respective trademark holders. None of the trademark holders are affiliated with PrepTerminal or this website.

Maureen Laneski

Created by: Maureen Laneski

Dispatcher and CritiCall Trainer

260 students,
4.4
, 110 Reviews

Maureen Laneski is an experienced public safety communications expert, dispatcher, and trainer with 18 years of dispatch experience and a master’s degree in teaching. She was her department’s first certified communications training officer and has trained numerous dispatchers over 10 years. Maureen started as a part-time dispatcher while pursuing her college education and competed against 800 other applicants for a full-time position, which she secured despite a lack of guidance and preparation. Maureen’s experience fueled her passion for assisting others in the dispatch field, and she now contributes to Prepterminal’s CritiCall Rapid Prep by creating comprehensive preparation materials for future dispatchers.

Any questions about the course? Contact Maureen at [email protected]

Success Stories

Discover what 110 students said about us:
Jason Smith

I appreciate the depth of this course; it's really thorough and covers everything you need to know. However, one week is definitely not enough time to get through all the material and practice tests. I initially bought a week's subscription and quickly realized I needed more time. If you're considering this course, I recommend buying at least a month. It’s great, but you’ll need ample time to really benefit from it.

Jason Smith

Chris Miller

At first, I looked at the modules and was overwhelmed. I purchased just a week's subscription, and there was so much to cover. I previously bought another provider's course, which was really short and had just 5-10 practice quizzes. This one has nearly 100, I'd say—each topic has about 3 of them. Make sure you have enough time to practice because it's extensive, but totally worth it. I felt way more prepared with this course

Chris Miller

Lisa Turner

There is a call summarization section in the exam, and trust me, it is tough. These guys make it really easy. There are around 30-40 audio calls that really get you familiar and comfortable with these questions. This course is a must-buy for anyone who is serious about passing the exam!

Lisa Turner

Daniel Foster

I found a problem with the typing interface; one of the questions in the easy practice test was reporting the wrong answer. I reached out to support, and they had this proof-providing process. I did, and they were really prompt and refunded me 50% as per their policy. In fairness, the course is prepared with a lot of thought and effort. I wouldn't have minded if I got no refund, but I appreciate their professionalism and dedication

Daniel Foster

Rachel Adams

The sentence clarity part of this course was surprisingly helpful. One thing I really appreciated was the real-world scenarios they used. It made the prcaticing process more relevant. However, there were a few similar questions that could use more variety. Despite that, I saw a noticeable improvement in my clarity and precision. Definitely a worthwhile part of the course

Rachel Adams

Jennifer Clark

This is it- it has so much to practice that you are sure to run out of time. I felt well-prepared and confident going into the exam. All the improtant question type were covered and the practice tests were never ending. The team were always ready to help. Highly recommend!

Jennifer Clark

Sarah Thompson

I can't recommend this course enough! The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive throughout the entire process. The practice scenarios were realistic and helped me feel prepared for the real thing. Thanks to this course, I passed my exam on the first try. If you're serious about becoming a dispatcher, this course is a must

Sarah Thompson

Megan Scott

This course was fantastic! The interactive features, like the real-time decision-making quizzes, made studying engaging and fun

Megan Scott

Jessica Martinez

This course had a practice quiz for just about every section you can think of. The map reading questions were tough, but they explained them really well. I felt like I got my money's worth with this course. I just wish I had more time to go through all the great material. Definitely worth it!

Jessica Martinez

Laura White

The content is excellent and well-structured, covering all the essential topics. However, I agree with others that a week isn’t enough to cover everything thoroughly. The practice tests are invaluable, but to get the most out of this course, consider a longer subscription. I felt rushed and could have benefited from more time to absorb the material.

Laura White

CHP Dispatcher Test Prep
Bestseller
4.4
| 110 Reviews |260 Students