Free TSA CBT Practice Test: Get Ready to Ace the 2D to 3D & X-Ray Versions
The TSA CBT Test is your gateway to a career as a Transportation Security Officer (TSO), and excelling on this test is the key to moving forward in the hiring process.
On this page, we provide everything you need to know about the TSA Test, including free practice tests with realistic questions tailored to the latest TSA test version and the legacy one.
Our expert-crafted free TSA CBT Practice Test simulates the actual exam questions, helping you gain the confidence and skills you need to secure a top score and move one step closer to your TSO career.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
Do you have any questions about the test or our practice package? Email me at roman@prepopedia.com - I'm here to help you land that TSA job offer!
Table of Contents
First things first:
Do You Know Which TSA CBT Test Version You’re Taking?
Let’s verify which TSA test version you’re taking, to ensure you don’t waste your time and avoid frustration.
The safest way to know that is by looking at the email you received with your exam invitation.
If you see the following lines, you’ll take the new TSA test aka the TSA 2D to 3D Test.
“This assessment is not an English language proficiency assessment. Overall testing time varies between candidates. However, you can expect to spend an average of 25-45 minutes in the test center.”
The old TSA CBT test includes two sections (X-ray and English proficiency) and takes 2.5 hours to complete.
So, the email you receive is the only way to know which test version you’re about to take.
Why is there so much contradicting information on Reddit and other sites?
The old TSA CBT format (with X-Ray and English proficiency questions) has been around for many years, so the internet is flooded with information about this version.
But since 2023, TSA has started replacing this legacy format with a newer test version, officially known as the TSA TAB Test.
Not all airports transitioned to this new format (several are still using the legacy one), but ultimately, all airports will use the new test version.
Alright, now that (hopefully) you know which test version you’re taking, it’s time to start practicing!
New TSA CBT Test Version – 2D to 3D, Connects the Dots & Image Matching
As mentioned above, the new TSA TAB test takes 25 to 45 minutes to complete, depending on your speed.
The test starts with two quick sections – Image Matching and Connect the Dots.
Then, it finishes with the most difficult and time-consuming section – the 2D to 3D Interpretation Test.
So, let’s jump right into the practice questions:
TSA 2D to 3D Sample Questions
In this section, you’ll be presented with a 2D figure and a 3D figure. Your task will be to match the edges of the 2D figure with the corresponding edges of the folded 3D shape.
You’ll encounter two question formats: Multiple Choice (less common) and Fill-in-the-Blank (more common).
Let’s try answering a few sample questions that are taken from our complete practice package.
TSA 2D to 3D Multiple Choice Practice Question
The edge labeled ‘8’ on the 2D net corresponds to what edge on the 3D shape?
Step-by-Step Explanation:
Why did the TSA change their legacy test format?
The TSA updated its test format to match advancements in airport security technology. With modern 3D X-ray scanners, the new test focuses on skills like spatial reasoning and attention to detail, ensuring officers can interpret 3D images accurately for better security.
TSA 2D to 3D Fill-in-the-Blank Practice Question
This question format is much harder since you need to find between 5 to 12 corresponding edges simultaneously, instead of just one edge as in the multiple-choice questions.
Let’s see two examples from our practice package, followed by step-by-step illustrations.
Match the numbers of the edges in the 2D shape (upper) to the letters of the edges on the 3D shape (lower) below.
A = B = C = D =
E = F = G = H = I =
Step-by-Step Explanation:
The correct answers are:
A = (10)
B = (8)
C = (7)
D = (6)
E = (5)
F = (9)
G = (4)
H = (3)
I = (11)
Match the numbers of the edges in the 2D shape (upper) to the letters of the edges on the 3D shape (lower) below.
A = B = C = D = E = F =
G = H = I = J = K = L =
Step-by-Step Explanation:
The correct answers are:
A = (2)
B = (8)
C = (11)
D = (7)
E = (9)
F = (3)
G = (5)
H = (6)
I = (4)
J = (1)
K = (12)
L = (10)
Feel like you need a bit more practice?
Visit our in-depth guide for more samples and the most comprehensive practice package with hundreds of questions!
TSA Connect the Dots Sample Questions
In its basic form, you’ll be asked to connect dots in ascending order: numerically (5-6-7-8-9-10-11…), alphabetically (D-E-F-G-H-I…), and alphanumerically (4-D-5-E-6-F-7-G-8-H…).
As the questions progress, they become much harder and include descending order (from Z to A or 50 to 1) and jump sequences (the difference between letters/numbers will be random).
Let’s see examples from our complete practice package that highly resemble the actual test:
Numerical Descending
Alphabetical Ascending
Alphanumerical Descending
Want to Ensure That You Ace This Test Portion?
Get the complete TSA test practice package, including 7 Connect the Dots quizzes with infinite practice questions (exclusive to this site)!
TSA Image Matching Sample Questions
In this section, you’ll be presented with a figure for each question. Your task will be to identify and choose an image identical to the one shown as quickly as possible.
Maximize Your Chances of Acing the TSA Test
Get the most comprehensive practice for the 2025 TSA CBT test and take the first step toward securing your desired job.
Extra Focus on 2D to 3D Questions
Master the hardest section of the TSA test with 70 expertly crafted practice questions – the most available anywhere. Get ready to excel where others struggle.
Step-by-Step Visual Explanations
Each question comes with detailed, step-by-step folding illustrations to help you easily visualize and solve even the toughest problems.
Exclusive Connect-the-Dots Practice
Sharpen your skills with unlimited practice on Connect-the-Dots questions, tailored to mimic real test scenarios. You won’t find this anywhere else!
What Our Customers Are Saying
The test questions were a lot harder than my actual exam! Which made the exam seem quite simple. I practiced every day for an hour taking a break then practicing again totaling five days took my exam and passed the first time.
Would definitely recommend it other, I found their website easy to navigate and study with, it made me so comfortable and finished every question!
30-Day Unlimited Access | 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Legacy TSA CBT Test Version – X-Ray & English Proficiency
The old TSA CBT consists of two parts: the X-ray and English tests. The entire exam lasts 2.5 hours and is divided into five sessions with breaks in between.
For the X-ray Object Recognition Test (ORT) section, you’ll be tasked with reviewing 100 images, while the English section includes around 50 to 60 questions.
If the email invitation from TSA mentioned that you’ll take this test, now is a good time to start preparing to increase your chances of passing the exam.
So, let’s start with trying the following TSA X-ray practice questions:
Free TSA CBT X-Ray Test Practice
The TSA X-ray exam, also used by GardaWorld on its pre-board screening officer test, is often the most anxiety-inducing section for candidates.
In this part of the test, you must quickly determine whether you can recognize a specific object or not, following the given instructions.
These items could range from prohibited objects like knives and weapons to common items such as toys, kitchen utensils, or electronic devices.
Keep in mind, on the actual test, you’ll only have 15 seconds per question to make your decision.
TSA X-ray Sample Questions – Everyday Items
Toys, Pens, Keys, and Shoes
Can you spot a toy in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is no toy in the given image.
Can you spot a pen in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is a pen in the given image – see the circle around it:
Can you spot keys in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There are no keys in the given X-ray image.
Familiarize Yourself with X-Ray Colors and Densities:
Understand Color Coding: In TSA X-ray images, different materials show up in different colors.
Harder materials (like metal) are usually blue. Organic materials (like food or clothing) are orange. Plastics or liquids are often green.
Practice with Different Items: Spend time looking at sample X-ray images (like those on this page) to learn how everyday objects look in various colors. This helps you quickly spot prohibited items like weapons or explosives, as well as everyday items.
Can you spot shoes in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There are no shoes in the given X-ray image.
Can you spot a toy in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is a dinosaur toy in the given image. See the circle around it:
What to Do When Time is Running Out?
When you're running short on time, it’s easy to confuse ordinary items with prohibited ones.
If you can’t locate the specific item within the given time, assume it isn’t present.
Only select "Yes" if you are certain that the object is there. Avoid making guesses without clear identification.
Water Bottles, Kitchen Utensils, and Working Tools
Can you spot a water bottle in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is no water bottle in this image.
Can you spot a kitchen tool in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is a kitchen tool in the given image. See the circle around the wooden spatula:
Can you spot a working tool in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is a working tool in the given image. See the circle around the metal crowbar:
Learn to Identify Objects from Multiple Angles:
Even if an item is at an unusual angle, learn to recognize the typical shapes of common objects. For instance, a knife or battery will look distinct no matter how they are packed.
Watches, Cell Phones, Electronics, and Flashlights
Can you spot a watch in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is no watch in the given image.
Can you spot a cellphone in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is no cellphone in the given image.
Dealing with Different X-Ray Color Schemes
Some states may use X-ray images with various color schemes or even black-and-white versions.
Regardless of the color, the scanning method remains unchanged. Stick to your practiced routine by focusing on the specific features of each object.
Remember that denser items like metal will appear darker for black-and-white images, while lighter objects, such as organic materials, will look brighter.
Can you spot a flashlight in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is a flashlight in the given image. You can see the circle around it:
Use a Consistent Scanning Method (4 Useful Ways):
1. Start from the Center and Move Outward: Begin by focusing on the center of the bag. This area often contains key items like electronics, which may obscure prohibited items.
Once you've scanned the center, work your way outward in sections, ensuring that you systematically cover the entire image.
2. Top-Down Approach: Another method is to start at the top of the image and work your way down in horizontal lines.
This approach can be particularly useful if the bag is densely packed, as it allows you to focus on one layer at a time.
3. Grid-Based Scanning: Mentally divide the image into a grid and scan each section thoroughly before moving on to the next.
This helps ensure you don't overlook any part of the image, especially in areas where objects might overlap or be hidden.
4. Object-Type Focus: As you scan, prioritize identifying objects that might be high-risk, such as electronics, knives, or liquids.
By focusing on these items first, you can quickly determine whether the bag poses a threat, while still covering the entire image.
TSA X-ray Sample Questions – Weapons
Weapons, such as knives, guns, and blades typically appear as dense, blue shapes due to the metal. Look for distinct, sharp edges and recognizable forms like handles or barrels.
Weapons are often packed inside other objects, so keep an eye on dense areas within items like shoes, books, or electronics.
Can you spot a knife in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is a utility knife in the given image. You can see the circle around it:
Can you spot a knife in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is no knife in the given image.
Practice Staying Focused for Long Periods:
- Build Stamina: The legacy TSA CBT test lasts 2.5 hours, and fatigue can impact your performance. Practice reviewing X-ray images for extended periods to improve your ability to stay focused throughout the test.
- Take Breaks During Practice: Just like in real screenings, knowing when to take a mental break during practice sessions can help you reset and improve overall accuracy.
Can you spot a gun in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is a gun in the given image. You can see the circle around it:
Can you spot a grenade in the following X-ray image?
Answer:
There is no grenade in the given image.
So, these were the practice questions for the X-ray test section. We hope you found them helpful!
Next, we have practice for the English test section, also known as the TSA Writing Skills Assessment.
Free TSA CBT English Test Practice
The TSA English Proficiency test includes 50 to 60 questions, which are divided into Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, and Written Communication sections.
Most airports don’t assess you on the three sections together. That said, there’s no way to know which section they’ll choose, so to be on the safe side, prepare for all three of them.
Reading Comprehension
Passage 1:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was established in response to the events of September 11, 2001, to strengthen the security of the nation’s transportation systems. Over the years, TSA has implemented various measures, such as advanced imaging technology and enhanced screening procedures, to ensure the safety of passengers and cargo. Despite facing challenges like evolving threats and privacy concerns, TSA continues to adapt its strategies to maintain a balance between security and efficiency.
Questions:
What was the primary reason for the establishment of the TSA?
A. To manage airport operations
B. To respond to the events of September 11, 2001
C. To regulate airline ticket prices
D. To oversee international travel policies
Answer:
Correct Answer: B. To respond to the events of September 11, 2001
The passage states that the TSA was established in response to the events of September 11, 2001, to strengthen the security of the nation’s transportation systems. This indicates that the primary reason for its establishment was to address security concerns arising from those events.
Which of the following measures has TSA implemented to enhance security?
A. Reducing the number of security personnel
B. Eliminating screening procedures
C. Increasing ticket prices
D. Introducing advanced imaging technology
Answer:
Correct Answer: D. Introducing advanced imaging technology
The passage mentions that TSA has implemented various measures, including advanced imaging technology and enhanced screening procedures, to ensure the safety of passengers and cargo. This indicates that introducing advanced imaging technology is one of the measures taken to enhance security.
TSA has faced no challenges related to privacy concerns.
A. True
B. False
C. Cannot Say
Answer:
Correct Answer: B. False
The passage states that TSA has faced challenges like evolving threats and privacy concerns. This indicates that TSA has indeed faced challenges related to privacy concerns, making the statement false.
Passage 2:
Electric vehicles (EVs) have seen a significant rise in popularity over the past decade. Advancements in battery technology have extended driving ranges, and an increasing number of charging stations have made EVs more accessible to the public. Governments worldwide are offering incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. However, challenges remain, including the need for further improvements in charging infrastructure and the environmental impact of battery production.
Questions:
What is one reason for the increased popularity of electric vehicles?
A. Reduction in vehicle safety standards
B. Decrease in fuel prices
C. Advancements in battery technology
D. Increase in traditional vehicle prices
Answer:
Correct Answer: C. Advancements in battery technology
The passage mentions that advancements in battery technology have extended driving ranges, contributing to the significant rise in popularity of electric vehicles over the past decade.
According to the passage, what is a goal of government incentives for electric vehicles?
A. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions
B. To increase fossil fuel consumption
C. To promote the use of public transportation
D. To decrease the number of vehicles on the road
Answer:
Correct Answer: A. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions
The passage states that governments worldwide are offering incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. This indicates that one of the goals of these incentives is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
All challenges related to electric vehicles have been resolved.
A. Cannot Say
B. True
C. False
Answer:
Correct Answer: C. False
The passage mentions that challenges remain, including the need for further improvements in charging infrastructure and the environmental impact of battery production.
This indicates that not all challenges related to electric vehicles have been resolved, making the statement false.
Tips for the Reading Comprehension Section
Read Questions First
Glance over the questions before the passage to know what to focus on while reading.
Answer Easy Questions First
Start with simple questions, like word meanings or statement comparisons, to save time and build confidence.
Stick to the Passage
Only use information from the passage—don’t rely on outside knowledge. If it’s not in the text, it’s not the answer.
Choose ‘Cannot Say’ if Unsure
For 'True/False/Cannot Say' questions, if the answer isn’t clearly in the passage, "Cannot Say" is usually correct.
Written Communication Questions (Fault Finding)
Each question includes a sentence with a potential error, followed by multiple-choice options to identify the type of error.
Question 1:
Identify the type of error in the following sentence:
“The security officer’s responsability includes monitoring the surveillance cameras.”
A. Spelling
B. Punctuation
C. Grammar
D. No error
Answer:
Correct Answer: A. Spelling
The word “responsability” is misspelled; the correct spelling is “responsibility.” This is a spelling error.
Question 2:
Identify the type of error in the following sentence:
“Each passenger must present their boarding pass at the gate.”
A. Spelling
B. Punctuation
C. Grammar
D. No error
Answer:
Correct Answer: C. Grammar
The pronoun “their” is plural, but it refers to the singular noun “Each passenger.” The sentence should use a singular pronoun, such as “his or her,” to maintain subject-pronoun agreement. This is a grammar error.
Question 3:
Identify the type of error in the following sentence:
“The TSA agents thorough inspection ensured the safety of all passengers.”
A. Spelling
B. Punctuation
C. Grammar
D. No error
Answer:
Correct Answer: B. Punctuation
There is a missing apostrophe in “agents.” It should be “agent’s” to indicate possession, as the inspection belongs to the agent. This is a punctuation error.
Tips for Identifying and Fixing Common Grammar Mistakes Seen in This Test Section
1. Misusing or Missing Commas
Ensure commas are placed correctly to separate clauses or items in a list.
Example:
Incorrect: She packed, her bag quickly.
Correct: She packed her bag quickly.
2. Pronoun Disagreement
Pronouns must agree in number with the nouns they refer to.
Example:
Incorrect: Every TSA agent must wear their badge.
Correct: Every TSA agent must wear his or her badge.
3. Incorrect Apostrophe Usage
Use apostrophes for possession or contractions, but not for plurals.
Example:
Incorrect: The bags’ were checked.
Correct: The bag’s contents were checked.
4. Sentence Fragments
Ensure every sentence has a subject and a verb.
Example:
Incorrect: Found the knife in the bag.
Correct: He found the knife in the bag.
5. Unclear Antecedent
Ensure the pronoun clearly refers to a specific noun.
Example:
Incorrect: The TSO found the passenger’s knife, and he was surprised.
Correct: The TSO found the passenger’s knife, and the passenger was surprised.
6. Confusing Common Homophones
Watch for easily confused words like you’re/your, to/too, and there/their/they’re.
Example:
Incorrect: Your going to the test.
Correct: You’re going to the test.
7. Capitalization Errors
Capitalize proper nouns and the first word of a sentence.
Example:
Incorrect: tsa agents follow strict rules.
Correct: TSA agents follow strict rules.
Vocabulary Questions
Here are three practice questions for the TSA CBT Vocabulary section, focusing on synonyms and antonyms.
Question 1: Synonym
Select the word that is most similar in meaning to “mitigate“:
A. Intensify
B. Alleviate
C. Aggravate
D. Exacerbate
Answer:
Correct Answer: B. Alleviate
“Mitigate” means to make something less severe or serious. “Alleviate” shares this meaning, as it refers to reducing the severity of something. The other options—”intensify,” “aggravate,” and “exacerbate”—all imply increasing severity, which is the opposite of “mitigate.”
Question 2: Antonym
Choose the word that is most opposite in meaning to “candid“:
A. Honest
B. Frank
C. Deceptive
D. Open
Answer:
Correct Answer: C. Deceptive
“Candid” describes someone who is truthful and straightforward. The word “deceptive” means misleading or dishonest, which is the opposite of “candid.” The other options—”honest,” “frank,” and “open”—are synonyms of “candid.”
Question 3: Synonym
Select the word that is most similar in meaning to “obscure“:
A. Clear
B. Obvious
C. Apparent
D. Vague
Answer:
Correct Answer: D. Vague
“Obscure” means not clear or difficult to understand. “Vague” has a similar meaning, referring to something that is not clearly expressed or defined. The other options—”clear,” “obvious,” and “apparent”—are antonyms of “obscure.”
Quick Tips for Antonym and Synonym Questions
1. Group Words by Meaning: Identify answer choices with similar meanings and eliminate them.
Example: For bright, remove luminous and radiant as synonyms.
2. Break Down the Word Using Roots and Affixes: Analyze complex words using their roots and affixes. For example, prefixes like mal- often indicate something bad.
Example: Malevolent (prefix mal- meaning “bad”) refers to someone with harmful intentions.
3. Look for Opposite Tone in Antonyms: For antonyms, check if the word is positive or negative, and eliminate choices with the same tone.
Example: For diligent (positive), eliminate positive options like hardworking and look for negatives like lazy.
How to Mentally Prepare for the TSA CBT Exam?
Preparing mentally for the TSA CBT is just as important as knowing the material.
Test anxiety can affect your performance, but there are practical strategies to help you stay calm and focused under pressure.
Here are some simple, no-nonsense techniques to manage stress during the exam:
1. Control Your Breathing
When you’re nervous, your breathing becomes shallow, which can increase anxiety. Slowing your breathing down helps you calm your body and mind.
Tip: Before the test, take a moment to breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and then slowly exhale. Do this a few times to help settle your nerves
2. Stay Focused on the Task
It’s easy to start worrying about the test as a whole, but try to focus only on the question in front of you. Don’t let your mind drift to how many questions are left or what might be coming next.
Tip: When you catch your thoughts wandering, refocus by reading the current question again. Take it one question at a time—don’t think about the entire test.
3. Picture Yourself Doing Well
While this may sound abstract, visualizing a smooth exam experience can help you stay positive. Imagine yourself going through the test calmly and answering confidently. This can actually shift your mindset to feel more prepared.
Tip: Right before the test, remind yourself of times you’ve successfully handled similar situations. Confidence can reduce stress and help you perform better.
4. Break It Down into Manageable Chunks
Instead of seeing the exam as one big, overwhelming task, split it into smaller sections. Focus on completing a set of questions, then move on to the next set.
Tip: Set small goals for yourself, like finishing 10 questions before you check the time. This helps you feel a sense of progress and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed by the whole test.
5. Use Realistic Self-Talk
It’s common to feel self-doubt during a test, but you don’t have to let that control your performance. Use practical, encouraging thoughts to keep your mind in check.
Tip: When you feel stressed, remind yourself that you’ve prepared for this test and know how to handle it. Simple statements like “I know this,” or “I’ve trained for this” can keep you grounded.
These straightforward methods are designed to keep you in control during the TSA CBT exam.
Focusing on what’s right in front of you and breaking the test down into smaller parts can help you handle the pressure and perform your best without feeling overwhelmed.
Maximize Your Chances of Scoring High and Getting a Job Offer
Prepare with a complete practice package designed to maximize your performance on the 2025 TSA test.
Only $49
30-Day Unlimited Access | 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
See What to Expect on the Other TSA Hiring Process Stages
Check our detailed guides for every step of the TSA hiring process to ensure you’re ready for what’s ahead: