Free TSA CBT Test Practice: 2023 Prep Guide by iPREP

The TSA CBT is a crucial step in the TSA hiring process, designed to assess a candidate’s suitability for a role in ensuring the safety and security of travelers across the United States. Here’s a snapshot of what the test entails:

• Purpose: The TSA CBT is designed to measure a candidate’s aptitude in areas such as image interpretation, critical thinking, and English language proficiency. These skills are vital for TSA roles, which often involve screening luggage and passengers, making quick decisions, and communicating effectively with the public.
• Format: The test is divided into two sections: the Screener Object Recognition Test (or X-ray test), and the Screener English Test. The former assesses your ability to identify dangerous objects from X-ray images, a common task for TSA officers. The latter evaluates your English language comprehension and communication skills.
• Validity: The TSA CBT is a highly valid assessment tool, developed and refined over many years. It is designed to accurately predict a candidate’s ability to perform key tasks associated with TSA roles. The test’s validity is supported by extensive research and statistical analysis.
• Skills Measured: The TSA CBT measures a range of skills, including:
  • Visual ability: Can you spot prohibited items in X-ray images?
  • English language proficiency: Can you understand and communicate effectively in English?
  • Critical thinking: Can you make quick, accurate decisions under pressure?
• Test Duration: The test typically takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete, but there is no official time limit. The X-ray test contains around 100 questions, while the English test has about 30 questions.
• Scoring: The TSA CBT uses a pass/fail scoring system. You must pass both sections to move forward in the TSA hiring process.

Remember, the TSA CBT is not just a hurdle to overcome; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate your potential as a future protector of America’s transportation systems. So, approach it with confidence and preparation. We’ll delve into the specifics of the test, preparation strategies, and more in the following sections.

X-Ray Threat Identification

As a prospective TSA officer, your ability to accurately and swiftly identify harmful and harmless objects is paramount. This skill is not only essential for your role but is also a significant part of the TSA Computer-Based Test (CBT), specifically the Screener Object Recognition Test.

This test assesses your ability to interpret X-ray images, a common task for TSA officers. To excel in this test, you’ll need to master several techniques that will aid in your object identification process. These techniques include understanding object colors, recognizing object shapes and sizes, and dealing with overlapping objects.

1. Object Colors: In X-ray images, different materials are represented by different colors based on their composition and density. Organic materials, such as food, leather, or explosives, often appear as orange. Metals, which are denser, appear blue or green. Lighter materials like plastics, ceramics, or precious stones can appear in shades of black, gray, or sometimes green. By understanding these color codes, you can quickly identify the material composition of an object and determine if it’s potentially harmful.
2. Object Shapes and Sizes: The shape and size of an object can provide crucial clues about its identity. For instance, a knife will have a distinctive shape, regardless of its orientation. Similarly, a gun will have a recognizable outline, whether it’s viewed from the side, top, or any angle. Familiarize yourself with the shapes and sizes of common prohibited items to enhance your object recognition skills. Remember, harmful objects can come in all sizes, so don’t dismiss something just because it’s small.
3. Overlapping Objects: This is one of the trickier aspects of X-ray image interpretation. When objects overlap, their shapes and colors can blend, making identification more challenging. However, you can use the color and shape techniques mentioned above to piece together what each object might be. Look for distinctive features or parts of objects that aren’t obscured. Practice is key here; the more images you review, the better you’ll become at identifying objects, even when they overlap.

Key Techniques for Object Identification in the TSA CBT Test

Technique	Description	Application
Object Colors	Different materials are represented by different colors in X-ray images based on their composition and density.	Understand the color codes to quickly identify the material composition of an object and determine if it’s potentially harmful.
Object Shapes and Sizes	The shape and size of an object can provide crucial clues about its identity.	Familiarize yourself with the shapes and sizes of common prohibited items to enhance your object recognition skills.
Overlapping Objects	When objects overlap, their shapes and colors can blend, making identification more challenging.	Look for distinctive features or parts of objects that aren’t obscured. The more images you review, the better you’ll become at identifying objects, even when they overlap.

Now that we’ve provided an overview of these techniques, we will delve deeper into each one in the following sections. We’ll explore how each technique works, provide practical examples, and offer tips on how to improve your skills in these areas. Remember, the key to mastering these techniques lies in understanding the principles behind them and then applying this knowledge through consistent practice. So, let’s dive in and equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in the TSA CBT Test and your future role as a TSA officer.

Object Colors

In the TSA CBT Test, and indeed in the real-world role of a TSA officer, understanding the color coding of X-ray images is crucial. Objects appear in different colors on the scan, depending on their density. The denser the object, the darker it will appear on the scan. Here’s a breakdown of what each color represents:

Blue (Dense Objects): Metals, hard plastics, alloys, and dense ceramics appear blue. Weapons, which are often made of metal, will typically appear blue. However, not all blue objects are dangerous. Everyday items like belt buckles, keys, or coins can also appear blue. Your task is to distinguish between harmless and potentially harmful objects. Pay attention to the shape and size of the blue object, and consider its context. For example, a large, irregularly shaped blue object in a suitcase might warrant further investigation.

Green (Medium Density Objects): Softer plastics, less dense alloys, or inorganic materials appear green. Electronics, which contain a mix of dense and medium-dense parts, often appear as a combination of green and blue. While green objects are generally less likely to be dangerous than blue ones, they still require careful attention. For instance, a green object with wires or batteries (common components of an explosive device) should be considered suspicious.

Orange (Low Density Objects): Fabric, food, liquids, and clothes appear orange. While many orange items are harmless, some dangerous items can also appear orange. Many explosive materials, for example, are low density and will appear orange in the scan. Therefore, an orange object with an unusual shape or located in an odd place might be a cause for concern.

Understanding Color Coding in X-ray Images

This table provides a detailed breakdown of the color coding used in X-ray images, examples of objects that fall into each category, and considerations for identifying potentially harmful objects.

Color	Density	Examples	Considerations
Blue	Dense	Metals, hard plastics, alloys, dense ceramics	Most weapons will appear blue. However, harmless items like belt buckles or keys can also appear blue. Consider the shape, size, and context of the object.
Green	Medium Density	Softer plastics, less dense alloys, inorganic materials	Electronics often appear as a combination of green and blue. Green objects are generally less likely to be dangerous than blue ones, but they still require careful attention.
Orange	Low Density	Fabric, food, liquids, clothes	Many harmless items appear orange, but some dangerous items, like explosives, can also appear orange. An orange object with an unusual shape or located in an odd place might be a cause for concern.

Remember, color is just one aspect of object identification. You’ll also need to consider other factors like the shape, size, and location of objects, as well as any overlapping items. Also, keep in mind that the colors can vary slightly depending on the X-ray machine and its settings. Therefore, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific color coding used in the TSA CBT Test and in your training as a TSA officer.

In the next sections, we’ll explore how to use object shapes and sizes, and how to deal with overlapping objects, to enhance your object identification skills. By mastering these techniques, you’ll be well-prepared to ace the TSA CBT Test and perform your duties as a TSA officer effectively.

Object Shapes and Sizes

Recognizing the shapes and sizes of different objects is a key skill for X-ray screeners and is a significant part of the TSA CBT Test. Here’s how you can enhance your understanding of this technique:

• Shape Recognition: Every object has a unique shape that can help you identify it, even when it’s at an unusual angle or folded over. For instance, a gun has a distinctive shape that’s recognizable from any angle. Similarly, a knife or a bottle has a unique outline that can help you identify it. However, recognizing shapes can be challenging when the object is not in its usual orientation or is partially obscured by other items. To overcome this, try to mentally rotate the object or visualize it from different angles. With practice, you’ll become adept at recognizing objects regardless of their orientation.
• Size Consideration: The size of an object can provide crucial clues about its identity. For example, a small, rectangular object could be a phone or a book, while a larger, cylindrical object might be a bottle. However, remember that harmful objects can come in all sizes. A small, sharp object could be just as dangerous as a larger one. Therefore, don’t dismiss an object just because it’s small.
• Contextual Clues: The shape and size of an object should be considered in the context of other items in the bag. For instance, a cylindrical object next to a bottle of sunscreen might be another toiletry item, while the same object next to wires and batteries could be part of an explosive device.

Mastering Object Shapes and Sizes in X-ray Images

This table provides a detailed guide on how to recognize objects based on their shapes and sizes, and consider contextual clues.

Technique	Description	Application
Shape Recognition	Every object has a unique shape that can help identify it, even when it’s at an unusual angle or folded over.	Try to mentally rotate the object or visualize it from different angles. With practice, you’ll become adept at recognizing objects regardless of their orientation.
Size Consideration	The size of an object can provide crucial clues about its identity.	Don’t dismiss an object just because it’s small. A small, sharp object could be just as dangerous as a larger one.
Contextual Clues	The shape and size of an object should be considered in the context of other items in the bag.	A cylindrical object next to a bottle of sunscreen might be another toiletry item, while the same object next to wires and batteries could be part of an explosive device.

In the next section, we’ll explore how to deal with overlapping objects, another crucial skill for the TSA CBT Test and the role of a TSA officer. By mastering these techniques, you’ll be well-prepared to identify harmful and harmless objects, ensuring the safety and security of travelers.

Overlapping Objects

In the TSA CBT Test, and in the real-world role of a TSA officer, you’ll often encounter scenarios where objects overlap or a bag is cluttered, making object identification more challenging. Here’s how you can enhance your skills in dealing with overlapping objects:

• Identify Outlines: When objects overlap, their shapes can blend, making it difficult to identify individual items. However, you can often still see the outline of each object. Try to identify these outlines and use your knowledge of object shapes to determine what each item might be. For instance, if you see the outline of a cylindrical object overlapping with a rectangular one, you might be looking at a bottle and a book.
• Consider Colors: Overlapping objects can also blend colors. Remember your color coding: blue for dense objects, green for medium density, and orange for low density. If you see a blue object overlapping with an orange one, you might be looking at a metal object on top of a piece of clothing.
• Use Contextual Clues: The position and orientation of overlapping objects can provide contextual clues. For example, a small, blue, rectangular object overlapping with a larger, orange, rectangular object in the corner of a bag might be a phone on top of a book.
• Look for Distinctive Features: Even when objects overlap, distinctive features can often still be seen. For instance, the blade of a knife or the wheels of a toy car might still be visible even if the objects are partially obscured.

Dealing with Overlapping Objects in X-ray Images

This table provides a detailed guide on how to handle overlapping objects in X-ray images. These skills are crucial for the TSA CBT Test and the role of a TSA officer.

Technique	Description	Application
Identify Outlines	When objects overlap, their shapes can blend, making it difficult to identify individual items. However, you can often still see the outline of each object.	Try to identify these outlines and use your knowledge of object shapes to determine what each item might be.
Consider Colors	Overlapping objects can also blend colors.	Remember your color coding: blue for dense objects, green for medium density, and orange for low density. If you see a blue object overlapping with an orange one, you might be looking at a metal object on top of a piece of clothing.
Use Contextual Clues	The position and orientation of overlapping objects can provide contextual clues.	A small, blue, rectangular object overlapping with a larger, orange, rectangular object in the corner of a bag might be a phone on top of a book.
Look for Distinctive Features	Even when objects overlap, distinctive features can often still be seen.	The blade of a knife or the wheels of a toy car might still be visible even if the objects are partially obscured.

By mastering these techniques, you’ll be well-prepared to identify harmful and harmless objects in overlapping scenarios, ensuring the safety and security of travelers.

“Don’t stress. I passed my test. I studied. …take practice tests. I did. And I made study guides as well. I literally made an entire binder haha. Just focus more on the X-RAY part. It’s more challenging. Focus on the different colors and what they mean. Again there are some practice tests you can take…I did. Good luck!!”

Source: givingup3579/reddit

Preparation Strategies

The TSA Computer-Based Test (CBT) is not just a hurdle to overcome; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate your potential. To make the most of this opportunity, you need to prepare effectively. Here are some proven strategies to help you prepare for the TSA CBT Test:

1. Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure of the test, the types of questions you’ll face, and the skills being assessed. This understanding will help you know what to expect and reduce test anxiety.
2. Review the Basics: The TSA CBT Test assesses basic skills like English language proficiency and object recognition. Make sure you’re comfortable with these areas. Brush up on your English reading and writing skills, and practice identifying objects based on their shapes, sizes, and colors.
3. Practice X-ray Image Interpretation: The ability to interpret X-ray images is crucial for the TSA CBT Test. Use available resources to practice this skill. Remember, it’s not just about identifying harmful objects; it’s also about recognizing harmless ones.
4. Take Practice Tests: Practice tests are one of the most effective ways to prepare. They help you familiarize yourself with the test format, improve your timing, and identify areas where you need to improve.
5. Review TSA Guidelines: As a TSA officer, you’ll be expected to enforce TSA guidelines. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines, especially those related to prohibited items.
6. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest security threats and trends. This knowledge will not only help you in the test but also in your future role as a TSA officer.
7. Take Care of Your Health: Good physical and mental health can significantly improve your test performance. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat healthily, and take time to relax and de-stress.
8. Believe in Yourself: Confidence is key. Believe in your ability to pass the test and perform the role of a TSA officer. This belief will motivate you to prepare effectively and perform your best on test day.

Remember, preparation is not just about studying; it’s about becoming the best candidate you can be. It’s about developing the skills and knowledge you’ll need to protect America’s transportation systems. So, approach your preparation with dedication, confidence, and a commitment to excellence.

In the following sections, we’ll explore other aspects of the TSA CBT Test, including test features, technical facts, results interpretation, and more. By understanding these aspects and applying the preparation strategies outlined above, you’ll be well-prepared to ace the TSA CBT Test.

“…they show you the xray image of an item and tell you what it is and you click on it in the next image when there’s other things with it… The worst trick they play during the CBT is the xray images only because they might change the angle of how it’s laying.”

Lucy_Starwind/reddit

Test Features

Purpose of the TSA CBT Test

The TSA Computer-Based Test (CBT) is a crucial part of the TSA hiring process. Its primary purpose is to assess a candidate’s aptitude in areas such as image interpretation, critical thinking, and English language proficiency. These skills are vital for TSA roles, which often involve screening luggage and passengers, making quick decisions, and communicating effectively with the public.

Format of the TSA CBT Test

The TSA CBT Test is divided into two main sections, each designed to assess specific skills required for the role of a TSA officer. Here’s an overview of the two parts:

1. Screener Object Recognition Test (SORT): This section is also known as the X-ray test. It assesses a candidate’s ability to identify potentially dangerous objects within X-ray images of passenger luggage. The images can be complex as they might contain mixed items or things that are overlapped. The test is broken into five to six sets of 18 images. There is no negative marking, so it is a good idea to try and answer all the questions – even if it is a guess. The pass rate for this portion of the test is low, and you might be asked to repeat it later.
2. Screener English Test (SET): This part of the test is to assess your basic English knowledge in three main ways – sentence correction, word meaning, and reading comprehension. These questions are multiple-choice and will not require more than a standard level of English knowledge.

Test Section	Focus
Screener Object Recognition Test (SORT)	Identification of potentially dangerous objects within X-ray images
Screener English Test (SET)	Assessment of English language proficiency

Each section is scored separately, and a candidate must perform well in both sections to progress in the recruitment process. The test is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the questions can change based on a candidate’s performance. If a candidate answers a question correctly, they may receive a more difficult question next. Conversely, if a candidate answers a question incorrectly, they may receive a less difficult question next.

Duration of the TSA CBT Test

The test typically takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete, but there is no official time limit. The X-ray test contains around 100 questions, while the English test has about 30 questions.

Scoring of the TSA CBT Test

The TSA CBT uses a pass/fail scoring system. You must pass both sections to move forward in the TSA hiring process. The test does not provide a numerical score; instead, candidates are simply notified whether they have passed or failed.

Validity of the TSA CBT Test

The TSA CBT is a highly valid assessment tool, developed and refined over many years. It is designed to accurately predict a candidate’s ability to perform key tasks associated with TSA roles. The test’s validity is supported by extensive research and statistical analysis.

In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into the technical facts of the TSA CBT Test, results interpretation, frequently asked questions, and more. By understanding these features and applying effective preparation strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the TSA CBT Test and your future role as a TSA officer.

Common names of the TSA Test

The TSA Computer-Based Test (CBT) is often referred to by several names, including:

• TSO Assessment Battery (TAB)
• TSA CBT
• TSA Entrance Exam
• TSA Precheck Test
• TSA Screener Test
• TSA X-ray Test
• TSA English Proficiency Test
• TSA Officer Exam
• Transportation Security Officer (TSO) Exam

TSA Test Technical Facts

Test Fast Facts (tl;dr)

1. Administered online at testing centers.
2. Two sections: SORT and SET.
3. SORT uses X-ray images.
4. SET tests English proficiency.
5. Multiple-choice format.
6. Adaptive difficulty.
7. Six-month wait for retakes.
8. No endorsed prep courses.
9. Unofficial prep resources available.
10. Crucial for TSA hiring.

Test Delivery

The TSA CBT Test is administered online, making it accessible to candidates across the country. It’s typically taken at a designated testing center under supervised conditions to ensure the integrity of the test.

Test Sections

The TSA CBT Test is divided into two main sections: the Screener Object Recognition Test (SORT) and the Screener English Test (SET).

• The SORT assesses a candidate’s ability to identify potentially dangerous objects within X-ray images of luggage. This section is designed to mimic the tasks a TSA officer would perform on the job.
• The SET evaluates a candidate’s English language proficiency, including reading, writing, and comprehension skills. This section ensures that candidates can effectively communicate with passengers and other TSA staff.

Test Questions

The test questions are multiple-choice, with each question offering four possible answers. The questions are designed to assess a candidate’s skills and aptitude for the TSA role, rather than their knowledge or experience.

Test Adaptivity

The TSA CBT Test is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the questions can change based on a candidate’s performance. If a candidate answers a question correctly, they may receive a more difficult question next. Conversely, if a candidate answers a question incorrectly, they may receive a less difficult question next.

Test Retakes

If a candidate fails the TSA CBT Test, they must wait six months before they can retake it. This waiting period is designed to give candidates ample time to improve their skills and better prepare for the test.

Test Preparation

While the TSA does not endorse any specific test preparation courses or materials, candidates are encouraged to review the TSA’s guidelines and procedures, practice their English language skills, and familiarize themselves with X-ray image interpretation. There are also numerous unofficial test preparation resources available online.

The DNXCT Test

The Digital National X-Ray Competency Test (DNXCT), administered by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the British International Freight Association (BIFA), is a critical certification for X-ray screeners in the aviation security industry. This test, which can take up to 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete, is designed to ensure that screeners meet the minimum performance standards required for their role.

The test has a pass mark of 80% and comes in three distinct versions, each tailored to a specific area of screening: cabin baggage, hold baggage, and air cargo and mail. It’s important to note that the DNXCT has replaced the older NXCT and is now the standard for X-ray screener certification in the UK.

• What is DNXCT? The DNXCT is a standardized image interpretation test that serves as the final step in the national certification of X-ray/EDS screeners in the UK. It’s designed to ensure that screeners meet the minimum standards and to mitigate risks associated with human error in the aviation security screening process.
• Test Environment: The DNXCT is a browser-based test that you’ll complete in a dedicated location, such as your workplace or a training facility. It’s important to note that the test must be supervised by a DNXCT test manager in person. Remote supervision or completion of the test is not allowed.
• Types of Tests: The DNXCT platform offers seven different tests, each catering to different categories of X-ray/EDS screeners. This ensures that the certification process is tailored to the specific role you’ll be performing.
• Who Needs Certification? If you’re involved in X-ray/EDS screening and make screening decisions, you’ll need to successfully complete the DNXCT as part of your certification. This applies to both screeners and supervisors. However, you can’t obtain certification speculatively; you must already be employed by an entity undertaking aviation security screening activities.

The DNXCT is not a training tool; it’s a pass/fail certification test designed to assess whether you meet the minimum standards as a screener. Approach it with seriousness and integrity, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a certified X-ray/EDS screener in the UK.

Other Organizations Using X-Ray Assessment Tests

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) are only two of many security authorities and agencies that administer an X-Ray ORT as part of their hiring process. There are a number of government and private organizations that make hiring decisions based on their candidates’ performance in X-Ray object recognition tests, including:

• The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA-ACTSA) contracts three security firms that operate at airports across Canada and requires all of them to include an X-Ray threat identification test to any person they wish to employ as a pre-boarding screening officer. These firms are:
  • GardaWorld Aviation Services in the Central Region and the Prairies Region
  • Securitas Transport Aviation Security in the Eastern Region
  • G4S Secure Solutions in the Pacific Region
• ISS Australia – a leading security firm in Australia, which partnered with Kedlin Screening International (KSI) to administer the X-Ray Screener Test to its prospective employees
• The International Air Transport Association (IATA) X-Ray Screening Test is administered by many of the 290 airline companies represented by this trade association. This online 25-minute x-ray image interpretation test has an 80% passing grade and is an important part of the training of security screeners in airports and cargo facilities.

Positions Requiring an X-Ray ORT Test

Different agencies and organizations refer to the screener’s position in different names. If you are applying to any of these jobs, take into account that you will probably need to pass a pre-employment X-Ray recognition test as part of your recruitment process:

• Pre-Board Screening Officer Test
• Transportation Security Officer
• Airport Security Officer (ASO) / Airport Security Screener
• Cargo Screener / Security Screener / X-Ray Operator
• Security Screener Officer / Package Screener
• Aviation Screener
• Security Xray Screening Specialist

Main X-Ray Competency Tests Used Today

There are a number of different x-ray tests being used. While some of the details may differ, if you are trying to prepare for any of the following tests, you can use the practice tests offered here for any of the following tests:

• CASRA – Center for Adaptive Security Research and Applications in Switzerland – Which offers either the CASRA X-Ray ORT (Object Recognition Test), which is a gray-scale based images or CASRAX-Ray CAT (Competency Assessment Test), which is the full color version. 
• Simulscan X-Ray CBT – Screening for aviation security and surveillance companies.
• Kedlin Screening International (KSI) – X-Ray Screener assessment
• VIA Project Aviation Security – Cabin Baggage Screening (CBS) and Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) tests.
• Additional in-house x-ray tests – tests like those developed by the TSA.

In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into the results interpretation, frequently asked questions, and more. By understanding these technical facts and applying effective preparation strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the TSA CBT Test and your future role as a TSA officer.

Results Scale and Interpretations

Understanding your TSA CBT Test results is crucial in assessing your readiness for the role of a TSA officer. Results from the TSA CBT test are available within a few minutes. You will receive points for each correct answer, while points will be deducted for each incorrect answer. The test results are comprehensive and provide a detailed evaluation of your skills and abilities. Here’s how to interpret the various components of the score report:

• Pass/Fail Status: The TSA CBT Test uses a pass/fail scoring system. You must pass both sections – the Screener Object Recognition Test (SORT) and the Screener English Test (SET) – to move forward in the TSA hiring process. The test does not provide a numerical score; instead, candidates are simply notified whether they have passed or failed.
• Scoring on the TSA CBT: Each section of the TSA CBT Test is scored separately. For the X-ray Test, you’ll need to identify prohibited or dangerous items in x-ray images of passenger luggage. The English Test assesses your basic English knowledge in three main ways – sentence correction, word meaning, and reading comprehension. There are no penalties for wrong answers, so it’s advisable to attempt all questions.
• Performance Categories: If you pass the test, you will be placed in one of three categories: Best Qualified, Highly Qualified, or Qualified. These categories provide a more nuanced understanding of your performance. Candidates in the Best Qualified category have scored the highest and are most likely to be offered their choice of role and location.
• Score Interpretation: While the TSA does not publicly share the passing score for the TSA CBT Test, the categorization into Best Qualified, Highly Qualified, and Qualified provides a clear indication of a candidate’s ability to perform the job role. The higher your category, the better your chances of progressing in the recruitment process.

Interpreting the TSA CBT Test Results

This table provides a detailed guide on how to interpret the TSA CBT Test results. Understanding your test results is crucial for assessing your readiness for the role of a TSA officer.

Component	Description
Pass/Fail Status	The TSA CBT Test uses a pass/fail scoring system. Candidates are notified whether they have passed or failed.
Scoring on the TSA CBT	Each section of the TSA CBT Test is scored separately. There are no penalties for wrong answers.
Performance Categories	If you pass the test, you will be placed in one of three categories: Best Qualified, Highly Qualified, or Qualified.
Score Interpretation	The categorization into Best Qualified, Highly Qualified, and Qualified provides a clear indication of a candidate’s ability to perform the job role.

Your TSA CBT Test results can provide valuable insights into your readiness for the TSA role. A pass status indicates that you have the basic skills necessary for the job. However, if you fail the test, don’t be disheartened. Use this experience as a learning opportunity, identify areas for improvement, and focus on these areas as you prepare to retake the test.

In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into the frequently asked questions about the TSA CBT Test, and provide tips to help you excel in the test.

“The image recognition section was the most challenging for me because I didn’t have any prior experience with x-rays. I found it helpful to practice with some of the online practice tests so that I could get used to seeing the different objects. I also found it helpful to read the instructions carefully and to take my time on each question.”

Source: TSA_CBT_Test_Taker5/reddit

TSA CBT Test FAQs

TSA Test Tips

1. Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes early. This will give you time to relax, familiarize yourself with the environment, and handle any last-minute issues that may arise.
2. Read Instructions Carefully: Before you start answering questions, take a few moments to read the instructions for each section of the test. This will ensure you understand what’s expected and can help you avoid unnecessary mistakes.
3. Manage Your Time Wisely: While the TSA CBT Test does not have a strict time limit, it’s still important to pace yourself. Don’t spend too much time on any one question. If you’re unsure of an answer, make your best guess and move on.
4. Use Process of Elimination: For multiple-choice questions, if you’re unsure of the correct answer, try to eliminate the options you know are incorrect. This can increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.
5. Stay Calm and Focused: It’s natural to feel nervous during a test, but try not to let your nerves get the best of you. Stay calm, take deep breaths, and focus on the task at hand. Remember, you’ve prepared for this, and you have the skills to succeed.
6. Trust Your Instincts: Sometimes, your first instinct is correct. If you’re torn between two answers, go with your gut. Don’t second-guess yourself too much.
7. Review Your Answers: If you have time at the end of the test, review your answers. Make sure you’ve answered all the questions and haven’t made any obvious mistakes.

Administration

1. Test Location: The TSA CBT Test is administered at designated testing centers across the country. The specific location will be assigned to you when you schedule your test.
2. Test Schedule: The test is typically scheduled after the initial application and background check. The exact date and time will be determined based on the availability of testing slots at your assigned location.
3. Test Format: The TSA CBT Test is a computerized test consisting of multiple-choice questions. It is divided into two sections: the Screener Object Recognition Test (SORT) and the Screener English Test (SET).
4. Test Materials: All necessary materials, including a computer and mouse, will be provided at the testing center. You are not allowed to bring personal items such as pens, paper, or electronic devices into the testing area.
5. Cost: There is no cost to the applicant for taking the TSA CBT Test. The test is part of the TSA’s hiring process and is covered by the agency.
6. Retake Policy: If you fail the TSA CBT Test, you must wait six months before you can retake it. This waiting period is designed to give candidates ample time to improve their skills and better prepare for the test.

Test Provider

The TSA CBT Test is administered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Established in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in 2001, the TSA is responsible for security in all modes of transportation across the United States. The agency’s primary mission is to prevent terrorist attacks and reduce the vulnerability of the U.S. transportation system to terrorism.

The TSA provides a range of services, including passenger and baggage screening at airports, security at rail and transit stations, and inspections of shipping cargo. The TSA CBT Test is one of the agency’s key tools for screening potential employees. It’s used nationwide and is a critical part of the TSA’s hiring process. Other notable services provided by the TSA include the TSA PreCheck program, which offers expedited security screening at airports, and the Federal Air Marshal Service, which deploys armed law enforcement officers on U.S. aircraft to enhance aviation security.

Information Sources

• Transportation Security Administration
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• USAJobs (Official job site of the US Federal Government)

Disclaimer – All the information and prep materials on iPREP are genuine and were created for tutoring purposes. iPREP is not affiliated with the Transportation Security Administration, which is the owner of the TSA CBT Test.