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The P99 form is a key document for individuals seeking a Certificate of Fitness for Low PSI Oil Burner Operation in New York City. Designed for those who will operate low-pressure oil burner systems, this form lays out specific requirements and procedures for certification. Since June 30, 2015, the use of No. 6 heating oil has been prohibited, making compliance with updated regulations essential for applicants. The certification process is streamlined, allowing prospective operators to submit their applications and payments online, avoiding lengthy wait times at the Fire Department. The exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 53 minutes, with a passing score of 70% required for certification. Additional information on exam locations and renewal requirements can also be found through the fire department's resources. Thus, understanding the P99 form and its requirements is crucial for those looking to operate safely and legally in this field.

P99 Example

Revised on 12/2021 (update to standard NOE and PFE)

FIRE DEPARTMENT ● CITY OF NEW YORK

STUDY MATERIAL FOR THE

CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS EXAMINATION FOR

P-99

LOW PSI OIL BURNER OPERATOR

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

Note.

Oil burners using No. 6. heating oil are prohibited by the NYC DEP on and after 06/30/2015.

This COF is NOT needed if the boiler in your building is:

fully automatic (the boiler is automatically initiated by the signal sent from a

thermostat) AND not using No. 6 fuel oil.

© 6-2000 New York City Fire Department - All rights reserved

EXAM SPECIFIC INFORMATION FOR

P-99 CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS

Save time and submit application online!

Applicants who submitted and paid online for an exam before arriving at the FDNY will not need to wait in line to enter the FDNY.

It can take about 30 minutes to complete. Completing application and paying online will eliminate waiting outside in the long lines.

Simplified instructions for online application and payment can be found here: http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/fdny/downloads/pdf/business/fdny-business-cof-individuals-short.pdf

Create an Account and Log in to:

http://fires.fdnycloud.org/CitizenAccess/SAML/NYCIDLogin.aspx

REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS APPLICATION

General requirements:

Review the General Notice of Exam: http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/fdny/downloads/pdf/business/general-notice-of-exam-cof.pdf

Special requirements for the P-99 Certificate of Fitness: None.

Application fee (Cash is NO LONGER ACCEPTED):

Pay the $25 application fee online or in person by one of the following methods:

Credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa)

Debit card (MasterCard or Visa)

In person: Personal or company check or money order (made payable to the New York City Fire Department)

A convenience fee of 2% will be applied to all credit card payments.

For fee waivers submit: (Only government employees who will use their COF for their work- related responsibilities are eligible for fee waivers.)

A letter requesting fee waiver on the Agency’s official letterhead stating applicant full name, exam type and address of premises; AND

Copy of identification card issued by the agency

REQUIREMENTS FOR ALTERNATIVE ISSUANCE PROCEDURE (AIP)

The P-98 Certificate of Fitness can be obtained by the alternative issuance procedure. Qualified applicants should review and complete the P-99 Certificate of Fitness Alternative Issuance Procedure Application Affirmation Form:

https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/fdny/downloads/pdf/business/cof-p99-aip.pdf

The AIP applicants must submit the application, required documents and payment on FDNY Business:

https://fires.fdnycloud.org/

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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EXAM INFORMATION

The P-99 exam will consist of 35 multiple-choice questions, administered on a “touch screen” computer monitor. It is a time-limit exam. Based on the amount of the questions, you will have 53 minutes to complete the test. A passing score of at least 70% is required in order to secure a Certificate of Fitness.

Call (718) 999-1988 for additional information and forms.

Please always check for the latest revised booklet at FDNY website before you take the exam.

http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/fdny/downloads/pdf/business/cof-p99-noe-study-materials.pdf

EXAM SITE:

FDNY Headquarters, 9 MetroTech Center, Brooklyn, NY. Enter

 

through the Flatbush Avenue entrance (between Myrtle Avenue

 

and Tech Place).

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS

General renewal requirements:

Review the General Notice of Exam: https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/fdny/downloads/pdf/business/general-notice-of-exam-cof.pdf

Special renewal requirements. P-99 Certificate of Fitness: None

QUESTIONS?

FDNY Business Support Team: For questions, call 311 and ask for the FDNY Customer Service Center or send an email to FDNY.BusinessSupport@fdny.nyc.gov.

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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This Study Material contains some of the information you will need to prepare for the Consolidated examination for the certificate of Fitness for Complex-wide Low PSI Oil Burner Operator (P-14), Supervisor of Low PSI Oil Burner (P-16), and Mobile Emergency Low PSI Oil Burner Operator (P-20). The study material includes information taken, for the most part, from relevant sections of the Building Code of New York. Other information describes the proper operation and maintenance of low PSI oil burner systems.

All questions on the Certificate of Fitness examination are multiple choice, with four alternative answers to each question. Only one answer is correct for each question. If you do not answer a question, or if you mark more than one alternative your answer will be scored as incorrect. A score of 70% correct is required on the examination in order to qualify for the Certificate of Fitness. Read each question carefully before marking your answer. There is no penalty for guessing.

SAMPLE EXAM QUESTIONS

The following questions represent the “format” of the exam questions,

not the content of the real exam.

1.Which of the following are allowed to be used while taking a Certificate of Fitness examination at 9 Metro Tech Center?

I. cellular phone

II. study material booklet

III.reference material provided by the FDNY IV. mp3 player

A. III only

B. I, II, and III

C. II and IV

D. I only

Only reference material provided by the FDNY is allowed to be used during Certificate of Fitness examinations. Therefore, the correct answer would be A. You would touch “A” on the computer terminal screen.

2.If the screen on your computer terminal freezes during your examination, who should you ask for help?

A.the person next to you

B.the firefighters

C.the examiner in the testing room

D.the computer help desk

If you have a computer related question, you should ask the examiner in the testing room. Therefore, the correct answer would be C. You would touch “C” on the computer terminal screen.

3.If you do not know the answer to a question while taking an examination, who should you ask for help?

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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A. the person next to you B. the firefighters

C. the examiner in the testing room

D. you should not ask about test questions since FDNY staff can not assist applicants

You should not ask about examination questions or answers since FDNY staff cannot assist applicants with their tests. Therefore, the correct answer would be D. You would touch "D" on the computer terminal screen.

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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EXTRACTIONS FROM THE BUILDING CODE OF NEW YORK

BUILDING CODE OF NEW YORK SUBCHAPTER 14

HEATING AND COMBUSTION EQUIPMENT

General requirements. All heating, combustion, and cooking equipment shall be installed with adequate clearances from combustible construction. Either the equipment shall be provided with insulation or the building construction shall be fire protected, so that during operation the surface of combustible construction materials will not be raised to a temperature higher than 170˚ Fahrenheit. Equipment shall be so that the means of access for ordinary operation and maintenance will not be hazardous.

Inspections and tests. (a) Acceptance tests. Boilers shall not be placed in operation upon completion of construction until they have been inspected and tested and an equipment use permit has been issued by the commissioner. (b) Periodic boiler inspections. All boilers shall be inspected at least once a year including chimney connections. (c) Owners annual statement. The owner of each boiler that is subject to periodic inspections shall file an annual written statement with the commissioner, specifying the location of each boiler and arrangement for inspection.

Fuel burning and fuel storage installations. (a) Field Tests. (1) All liquid fuel piping and fuel oil storage tanks shall be hydrostatically tested for tightness by the contractor who made the installation before the work is closed in and before the system is operated. The piping shall be tested at one- half times the maximum working pressure applicable to that part of the piping system but at a pressure less than the test pressure required for the storage tank. The minimum pressure for testing tanks shall be one and on-half times the maximum working pressure applicable to the tank but in no case for less than twenty-five psi. The hydrostatic pressure shall be maintained until all joints and connections have been visually inspected for leaks, but in no case for less than one-half hour. A record shall be kept of the pressure test showing the name of the contractor and the pressure at which the piping and the tank were tested. (2) Gas distribution piping shall be tested for tightness by the contractor who made the installation before the work is closed in and before the system is operated. (b) Instruction Cards. For oil burning systems, cards giving complete instructions for the care and operation of the system shall be furnished and shall be permanently located in an easily visible and accessible location near the equipment.

Licenses and certificates. Every stationary oil-fired device, equipment or system that is not fully automatic or requires preheating of the oil shall be operated by or under the personal supervision of a person holding a certificate of fitness or a person holding a high-pressure boiler operating engineer’s license issued by the Department of Buildings. In addition to providing personal supervision, such person shall be present at the device, equipment or system during startup. A stationary oil-fired device, equipment or system that is subject to annual inspection pursuant to Article 303 of Title 28 of the Administrative Code may be operated under the general supervision of a certificate of fitness holder or a high-pressure boiler operating engineer license holder.

Operators inspection after repairs. After any repairs are made to a boiler or fuel burning equipment for which licensed or qualified operators are required, such operators shall check the

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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repairs, together with the functioning of all control devices and the positioning of the valves. These licensed or qualified operators also shall be present during the starting of the operation of the equipment and shall be responsible for the proper and safe operation of such equipment.

Abatement of air contaminants. All heating and combustion equipment that is fired with solid, liquid, or gas fuels including all rubbish burners and incinerators, shall comply with the requirements of the air pollution control code.

Equipment classification. (1) Low temperature equipment. Equipment whose products of combustion at the point of leaving the equipment have a temperature of 600˚ Fahrenheit or less under normal conditions. (2) Medium temperature equipment. Equipment whose products of combustion at the point of leaving the equipment have a temperature between 600˚ and 1000˚ Fahrenheit under normal operating conditions. (3) High temperature equipment. Equipment whose products of combustion at the point of leaving the equipment have a temperature of 1000˚ Fahrenheit or greater under normal operating conditions.

Combustion air. Air supply. Ventilation shall be capable of providing at least thirty-six cfm of air for each gallon of oil per hour required to fire the equipment to gross output. If the ventilation for the purpose of combustion is supplied mechanically, the ventilating system shall be electrically interlocked with the burner so that when the burner is in operation, the ventilating system shall maintain the room in which the equipment is located at a pressure no less than the outdoors atmospheric pressure. Flue dampers. Dampers in flues shall be constructed so that they cannot completely cut off the passage of flue gases at any time. Tight closing dampers may be installed with approved automatic draft and combustion controls.

Fuel oil equipment. General requirements. Fuel oil shall mean hydrocarbon oils with a flashpoint not lower than 100˚ Fahrenheit and marketed under the following commercial grade: range oil or no. 1 fuel oil; diesel oil or no. 2 fuel oil; no. 4 fuel oil; no. 5 fuel oil; no. 6 fuel oil. The use of crankcase refuse oil as fuel oil is prohibited. Piping. Installation of piping and tubing. Overflow pipes, where installed, shall not be smaller in size than the supply pipe. Where a shut-off valve is installed in the discharge line from an oil pump, a relief valve shall be installed in the discharge line between the pump and the first shut-off valve. A relief or pressure regulating valve shall be provided in the oil piping system on the heater side of the shut-off valves. Heating coils in storage tanks. The heating of oil in storage tanks shall be by means of coils using low pressure hot water or steam, or by means of electric heaters approved for use in oil storage tanks. Where a single tank and a single burner are installed, a shut-off valve shall be required in the supply line at the tank and another at the burner.

A remote control shall be provided to stop the flow of oil to any burner. Such control shall be located outside the entrance to the room in which the burner is located and as close to such entrance as practicable, except that when an outside location is impracticable, such control may be located immediately inside the room in which the burner is located, provided such location is accessible at all times. All such controls shall be permanently labeled “remote control for oil burner.” On storage tanks of sixty gallon or less capacity used with manually operated burners, such remote control may be installed in the supply lines between tank and burner. Pressure in a storage tank for the purpose of discharging oil shall be prohibited.

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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Controls. With each automatic burner a set of safety controls of electric, pneumatic, hydraulic or mechanical type shall be installed and maintained in good working order. The controls shall provide the following functions: (a) oil temperature control (no. 5 and no. 6 oil). (b) Ignition. (c) Stack or combustion control. (d) High temperature or pressure control.

Chimneys. No oil burner shall be installed unless it is connected to a chimney.

OVERVIEW OF LOW PSI OIL BURNER OPERATION AND CONTROLS Oil Circulation in The System

The following material provides an overview description of the process of oil circulation in the burner system. When reading the following, refer to DIAGRAM 1, the Oil Circulating Diagram on the following page.

The oil storage tank provides the supply of oil for combustion in the oil burner. In its normal condition, no. 6 fuel oil is very thick and heavy and is not easily pumped through the circulation system. For this reason the oil in the storage tank is heated. The temperature in the storage tank is usually maintained between 100˚and 130˚ Fahrenheit.

A suction cup circulates the oil throughout the system. Dirt and sediment are present in the fuel oil coming from the oil storage tank. The oil strainer removes most of these contaminants from the oil before the oil reaches the burner. The vacuum gauge is a device that measures pressure below atmospheric pressure. Excessive vacuum readings indicate that there is an obstruction in the suction line (such as dirty oil strainer). When this occurs the flow of oil can be stopped by closing the shut- off valve. This permits the operator to clean the strainer or to perform other maintenance.

Preheaters are used to heat the oil further before the oil enters the burner for combustion. The oil is heated to between 160˚ and 180˚ Fahrenheit. Preheating makes it easier to pump the oil and also makes it easier to atomize the oil. The oil is metered into the burner where it is atomized by the spinner or atomizer cup. The atomized oil and air are mixed in the combustion chamber and burned.

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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The main fuel valve is electrically operated and will open or close the line leading to the atomizer of the oil burner. It will shut down the burner system if there is a failure of ignition or combustion.

Oil circulates through the system back to the storage tank through the oil return line. The normal oil pressure for no. 6 oil burners is between 30 and 50 psi. A back pressure relief valve is provided for safety if the pressure becomes too great. Additional heaters may be present in the return line to ensure that the oil is maintained at the proper temperature for easy circulation in the system.

DIAGRAM 1 – OIL CIRCULATION

This book is provided to the public for free by the FDNY.

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Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Governing Law The P-99 Certificate of Fitness is governed by regulations set forth by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY).
Free Study Material The FDNY provides free study material to the public for the P-99 exam, ensuring accessibility for all applicants.
Application Process Applicants can save time by submitting their application online, eliminating the need to wait in line.
Exam Format The P-99 exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 53 minutes.
Passing Score A score of at least 70% is required to pass the examination and receive the Certificate of Fitness.
Application Fee The application fee for the P-99 Certificate of Fitness is $25 and must be paid online or via accepted payment methods; cash is not accepted.
Renewal Requirements There are no special renewal requirements for the P-99 Certificate of Fitness; general renewal guidelines apply.
FDNY Contact For questions or more information, individuals can contact the FDNY Business Support Team or call 311.

Guidelines on Utilizing P99

After completing the P99 form, your next step involves submitting your application and payment. Make sure all required information is accurate to avoid delays. You can apply online, which is recommended to save time and streamline the process.

  1. Visit the FDNY account creation page at this link and create an account.
  2. Log in to your account once it has been created.
  3. Review the general requirements for the Certificate of Fitness application at this link.
  4. Understand special requirements for the P-99 Certificate of Fitness. No additional requirements are necessary.
  5. Complete the application form accurately, providing all required information.
  6. Choose your payment method. Accepted methods include:
    • Credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa)
    • Debit card (MasterCard or Visa)
    • In person: personal or company check or money order made out to the New York City Fire Department
  7. Ensure you pay the application fee of $25. Remember, cash is not accepted anymore.
  8. If applicable, submit a fee waiver request on your agency's official letterhead along with a copy of your identification card.
  9. Review and confirm all your details before submitting the application online.
  10. Keep track of your submission and payment for future reference.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the P99 form used for?

The P99 form is associated with the Certificate of Fitness for operating low PSI oil burners in New York City. This certificate ensures that individuals meet the necessary requirements to operate these systems safely and in compliance with local regulations.

Who needs to apply for the P99 Certificate of Fitness?

How can I apply for the P99 Certificate of Fitness?

What does the P99 examination entail?

The P99 examination consists of 35 multiple-choice questions, which you must complete within 53 minutes. A score of at least 70% is necessary to pass. The exam is given on a touch-screen computer at FDNY Headquarters in Brooklyn.

Are there any special requirements for the P99 application or exam?

How can I prepare for the P99 exam?

What should I do if I have questions regarding the P99 form or exam?

If you have additional questions, you can contact the FDNY Business Support Team. You may call 311 and ask for the FDNY Customer Service Center or send an email to the provided address for assistance.

Common mistakes

Filling out the P99 form can be a straightforward process if done correctly. However, several common mistakes can lead to delays or issues with the application. Understanding these mistakes is essential for applicants.

One frequent mistake is not providing the correct payment method. Applicants need to remember that cash is no longer accepted. Many may assume they can pay with cash, resulting in wasted time at the application site. Using a credit or debit card is necessary to comply with the payment requirements.

Another issue arises when individuals fail to create an online account before beginning their application. This step is crucial for anyone looking to complete the process efficiently. Skipping this requirement leads to longer wait times and potential frustrations at the application center.

Some applicants overlook the requirement for a fee waiver. Only employees of government agencies are eligible, and they must provide specific documentation. Not preparing the necessary letter and ID can lead to ineligibility for a waiver, forcing applicants to pay out of pocket.

Inaccuracies in personal information are common mistakes as well. Failing to double-check the name and contact details can lead to complications down the line. Accurate information ensures that communications about the application process are smooth.

Submitting incomplete applications is another significant error. Applicants should carefully review the form to ensure all required sections are filled in. Missing any part of the application can result in rejection, requiring the applicant to start over.

Many also underestimate the importance of understanding the test format. The P99 exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions, and many fail to prepare adequately for this format. Familiarity with the question style can impact performance on the exam.

Another mistake involves not adhering to the application timeline. Some may wait until the last minute to submit their application, which can be problematic. Early submission allows for any unexpected issues to be addressed ahead of the exam date.

Some individuals do not check for the latest revisions of the study materials, which can lead to outdated information. Keeping up with the most current resources is crucial for effective preparation.

Lastly, neglecting to review the General Notice of Exam can hinder an applicant's understanding of requirements. This document contains important information that is vital for a successful application and should not be overlooked.

Documents used along the form

The P-99 form, used for applying for the Certificate of Fitness for Low PSI Oil Burner Operator, often comes alongside several other important documents. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose in the application process, helping to ensure that applicants have all the necessary information and requirements met for a successful submission.

  • General Notice of Exam: This document outlines the general instructions and requirements for all Certificate of Fitness examinations. It provides applicants with essential details on eligibility, procedures, and important dates.
  • Application Fee Payment Receipt: When applicants pay the required $25 application fee, they receive this receipt. It serves as proof of payment and must be submitted with the P-99 application.
  • FDNY Certificate of Fitness Renewal Application: For those renewing their certificate, this application must be completed. It ensures that holders keep their qualifications current and comply with any updates in regulations or requirements.
  • Alternative Issuance Procedure Application Affirmation Form: This form is for applicants seeking certification through the Alternative Issuance Procedure. It outlines specific qualifications needed to obtain the P-98 Certificate of Fitness.
  • Fee Waiver Request Letter: Government employees may apply for a fee waiver using this letter. It needs to be on official agency letterhead and include details about the applicant and their responsibilities.
  • Study Material for the Examination: This resource provides applicants with vital preparation material, including information about the operation of low PSI oil burner systems and sample exam questions to help them prepare for the test.

Gathering all these documents can help streamline the application process for the P-99 Certificate of Fitness. Being well-prepared increases the chances of passing the examination and obtaining the necessary qualifications for operating low PSI oil burners safely and effectively.

Similar forms

  • Form P-98: Similar to the P-99 form, the P-98 focuses on the qualifications for a Certificate of Fitness, specifically for pressure vessels. It outlines the criteria necessary to operate safely and effectively.
  • Form P-14: The P-14 form is for the Certificate of Fitness for Complex-wide Low PSI Oil Burner Operator. Like the P-99, it includes examination information and requirements that must be fulfilled to obtain the certification.
  • Form P-16: This form is for the Supervisor of Low PSI Oil Burners. It shares similar exam question formats and grading criteria as the P-99 form, requiring a passing score for certificate issuance.
  • Form P-20: The Mobile Emergency Low PSI Oil Burner Operator certificate is similar to the P-99. Both require knowledge of low PSI systems and have structured examinations for qualification.
  • General Notice of Exam: This document provides essential information about different certificate programs, including prerequisites and testing procedures. It's used alongside the P-99 form for clarity on exam requirements.
  • Certificate of Fitness Application: This application form captures personal details and specific qualifications needed to apply for the P-99 Certificate of Fitness, mirroring the process for other fitness certificates.
  • Fee Waiver Documentation: If applicants seek fee waivers, this form outlines the steps necessary to obtain one, similar to how the P-99 handles payment options and eligibility.
  • Renewal Form: Just like the P-99, the renewal form provides the necessary details on how to maintain certification and the conditions under which renewal must occur.
  • Exam Study Material: Similar to the P-99 study materials, these documents provide critical information and practice questions, aimed at helping candidates prepare for various fitness assessments.
  • Application Tracking Form: This form allows candidates to monitor their application status, just like the P-99 ensures applicants are informed throughout the process.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the P99 form, consider the following dos and don'ts:

  • Do submit your application online to save time and avoid long lines.
  • Do make sure to pay the $25 application fee using accepted payment methods; cash is no longer accepted.
  • Do review the General Notice of Exam before applying.
  • Do ensure you have the correct identification if you are applying for a fee waiver.
  • Do check for the latest version of study materials on the FDNY website.
  • Don't forget to log in to the FDNY Business portal before submitting your application.
  • Don't submit incomplete documents, especially if you are applying under the Alternative Issuance Procedure.
  • Don't wait until the last minute to prepare for the exam; start early to ensure you understand the material.
  • Don't use a prohibited payment method or expect cash payments to be accepted.
  • Don't skip the sample questions; they are essential for understanding the exam format.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception: A P-99 Certificate of Fitness is required for all oil boilers. The truth is, a P-99 Certificate is not needed if the boiler is fully automatic and not using No. 6 fuel oil. This exception can save time and resources for many operators.
  • Misconception: You can pay the application fee in cash. Cash is no longer accepted for the application fee. Payments must be made online or with a personal/business check or money order. It’s essential to plan accordingly.
  • Misconception: All questions on the exam are tricky and misleading. While the exam consists of multiple-choice questions, the intent is not to confuse candidates. Careful reading of each question will often lead to the right answer.
  • Misconception: You can use any reference material during the exam. The only materials allowed during the examination are those provided by the FDNY. Bringing outside study materials, cellular devices, or other references is not permitted.
  • Misconception: A passing score on the exam is 60%. In fact, a minimum score of 70% is required to pass and secure the Certificate of Fitness. Candidates should prepare thoroughly to meet this requirement.
  • Misconception: The application process is lengthy and complicated. The application can be completed online, which simplifies the process significantly. Submitting your application and payment in advance can save time and avoid long lines at the FDNY office.

Key takeaways

Key Takeaways About the P99 Form

  • To avoid long lines, applicants should complete their P99 application and payment online.
  • There is a $25 application fee, which can be paid online via credit or debit card, or in person with a check or money order.
  • Government employees may be eligible for fee waivers; they must submit a letter and ID from their agency.
  • The P-99 exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of 53 minutes.
  • To pass the exam and obtain the Certificate of Fitness, you need to score at least 70%.
  • Always check for the latest study materials and information on the FDNY website before the exam.