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What to expect on the TSA exam?

The TSA CBT X-ray and English test which takes 2.5 hours, split over five sessions with designated breaks. It is made up of two main components: the X-ray Object Recognition Test (ORT), which includes 100 image-based questions, and the written section, comprising 50 to 60 questions.



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The TSA CBT is not particularly hard, yet only around 30% of applicants pass. This is mainly because the image recognition task is not something that many people will have done before – and with a lack of knowledge about the technology, it can be difficult to find the right response.

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The best applicants will score more highly, but 70 represents a comparatively high score and only a few very exceptional applicants will achieve scores higher than 80.

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If you do not pass the TSA Computer Based Test, then your recruitment process ends, and you won't be able to reapply for another six months.

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The online application takes five minutes to complete with the in-person visit taking 10 minutes. During the in-person process, the enrollment provider will collect your biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify identity documents, and collect payment.

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According to officials briefed on the results of a recent Homeland Security Inspector General's report, TSA agents failed 67 out of 70 tests, with Red Team members repeatedly able to get potential weapons through checkpoints.

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Although it is easy to practice and revise for the TSA test, only around 30% of applicants pass the examination. You must be prepared for both sections of the TSA test.

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Most applicants receive approval notification in 3-5 days, though some applications can take up to 60 days. Considering this, applicants are encouraged to renew at least 60 days prior to expiry.

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To score the interview, a score out of 30 is given for six of the competencies, while the Honesty/Integrity competency is scored separately. If the candidate has a minimum score of 3/5 for each of the six competencies and a pass for Honesty/Integrity, then the interview is marked successful.

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What Kind of Drug Test Does TSA Use? Generally, the Transportation Security Administration uses five-panel urine (pee) drug tests for all applicants applying for a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) job. In some cases, they may also use a breath alcohol test and hair follicle drug tests for existing TSA workers.

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A $100 one-time fee is required with your Global Entry application and must be paid at time of application submission through the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) system. You can pay by credit card or through an electronic bank transfer. The fee is non-refundable, even if an application is denied.

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Security or immigration violations Some violations could result in denial, suspension or revocation, especially if there are criminal implications. Examples include assault, threat, intimidation or interference with a flight crew. Immigration violations are taken seriously, too.

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The Paneled TSA Standardized Interview
A panel of two to six interviews will ask you six questions based on soft skills.

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Is 65 a good TSA score? Competitive scores vary from year to year, but, according to historical data, a scaled score of 65 or more is usually considered competitive. The best applicants will score more highly, with 70 representing a comparatively high score.

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