The interview process is very lengthy, and includes multiple stages that can sometimes take several years to complete. Your first stage is a physical fitness exam; this will test your endurance in a 1 1/2 mile run (to be completed in a max time based on your age), your ability to perform a number of push-ups and sit-ups in one minute for both exercises (also dependent on your age for minimum repetitions), and the ability to bench press 70% of your body weight. After passing the physical fitness exam, you will have an assessment to determine your strengths and weaknesses relevant to the fire department. Both of these phases will be done in groups. The third phase is a board interview with the training officers. Once they have decided you are fit for the job, you will have your final interview with the training cheif, assistant fire cheif, and fire cheif. Within a week of having your final interview, you will receive a phone call notifying you of your "conditional" hire, or rejection. Once hired, you must pass a drug test, and physical examination before beginning your training. Remember, do NOT try to sound like the perfect firefighter; over confidence will get you rejected.