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TSA CBT Test 2025:Â X-Ray Object Recognition Test (ORT)
The TSA Computer-Based Test (CBT) is a critical step in the recruitment process for Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) in the United States. One of the most challenging components of this exam is the X-Ray Object Recognition Test (ORT).
This section evaluates a candidate’s ability to accurately interpret X-ray images of baggage and identify potentially dangerous or prohibited items. Given its difficulty and importance, understanding how the test works and developing key skills is essential to pass and secure a role with the Transportation Security Administration.
What Is the TSA X-Ray Object Recognition Test (ORT)?
The TSA X-ray test is designed to measure your visual and cognitive abilities specifically, your capacity to detect and identify threats in cluttered X-ray images.
These simulated images mimic those used at airport security checkpoints and often contain both common travel items and potential threats such as:
- Firearms
- Knives
- Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)
- Hazardous tools or sharp objects
- Unusual organic materials
Each image is color-coded to mimic real-world X-ray technology and provide visual cues for identifying different materials:
- Orange – Organic materials (e.g., explosives, food, rubber, liquids)
- Blue – Metal (e.g., guns, knives, tools)
- Green – Hard plastics or less dense items (e.g., electronics)
- Black or Grey – Dense objects or items overlapping multiple layers
Understanding these color codes is critical to recognizing and differentiating between safe items and threats.
Format and Structure of the ORT
The Object Recognition Test is a timed multiple-choice assessment conducted on a computer. You’ll be presented with a series of static X-ray images and asked to determine whether a specific item is visible in the image.
Each question includes: A simulated X-ray image A prompt asking if a certain object (e.g., knife, bottle, laptop) is present
Two options: Yes or No
The TSA CBT may include up to 100 X-ray image questions, and you are expected to complete them within a strict time limit (typically around 25–30 minutes, depending on the current version of the test).
That’s approximately 15–20 seconds per image, which demands sharp visual scanning and decision-making skills.
Who Takes the TSA X-Ray Test?
The TSA CBT is a requirement for anyone applying for a TSO position with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This test ensures you have the visual acuity and judgment necessary to keep passengers safe.
Candidates must:
- Be U.S. citizens
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Pass both sections of the CBT: English Language Skills and Object Recognition (X-ray)
A failing score in either section will disqualify you from continuing in the hiring process.
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What Happens After the Test?
After the CBT, successful candidates are notified by email and may proceed to the next hiring stages, which include:
- Airport assessment
- Medical evaluation
- Background check
- Drug screening
Your X-ray test score is not publicly disclosed but must meet the TSA's internal standard for security competency.
Types of Questions on the TSA X-Ray Test
1. Object Recognition
This section tests your ability to visually identify specified objects in an X-ray image, regardless of how cluttered or rotated they may be.
Sample Question: Can you spot a Bottle in this image?
A. Yes
B. No
Correct Answer: A. Yes
Explanation:Â The X-ray image shows a bottle in a green color, indicating a material less dense than metals, typically plastic. The distinct bottle shape, with its rounded body and neck, confirms its presence in the given X-ray image.
Tip: Objects may appear distorted, overlapped, or rotated—develop pattern recognition skills and practice recognizing items from multiple angles.
2. Threat Detection
You’ll need to identify objects that pose security risks. These are not always explicitly labeled, and you must rely on your understanding of object shapes and materials.
Common threat items to recognize:
-
Knives (blue, metallic, pointed edges)
-
Guns or parts of firearms (typically blue, complex internal structures)
-
Wires, circuit boards, or batteries in suspicious arrangements (may suggest an IED)
-
Scissors or tools (sharp metal parts)
Sample Tip: If you see wires leading to batteries, attached to dense items, or hidden among organic materials (orange), it could indicate a disguised explosive.
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How to Prepare for the TSA X-Ray Test
1. Understand X-ray Image Color Coding
Familiarize yourself with how materials appear in X-ray:
- Orange = organic (explosives, food, liquids)
- Blue = metals (weapons, tools)
- Green = plastics or electronics
- Black/Grey = dense overlap or mixed materials Knowing these will make your identification faster and more accurate.
2. Practice With Simulated X-ray Tests Repetition is key.
Practice with real-style TSA CBT simulations so you get used to:
Speed (15–20 seconds per question) Cluttered imagery Spotting objects from unusual angles
Tip: Use a timer and work under exam conditions to simulate the pressure. You can take our Free TSA X-ray Practice Test to assess your current level. Results appear immediately, helping you track your improvement.
3. Learn to Recognize Threat Profiles
Understand what threats look like in real life and how they translate into X-ray imagery. Study photos and diagrams of: Guns and gun parts (barrel, trigger) Knives (blade shape, handle) Batteries, wires, and circuit boards Tools (wrenches, scissors)
Practice Tip: Look at security footage or sample images from airport security reports to train your visual familiarity.
4. Improve Visual Scanning Speed
The faster your eyes can scan the image and identify components, the better you’ll perform.
Drills to Try:
- Flash image exercises: Study an image for 10–15 seconds and write down everything you noticed.
- Shape recognition drills: Focus on silhouettes of objects without color clues.
- Rotation training: Recognize objects when flipped, turned, or obscured.
5. Stay Focused and Avoid Fatigue
Visual fatigue reduces accuracy. During prep, take short breaks after every 20 minutes. Get proper sleep before test day, and avoid long practice sessions that make you mentally tired.
Top Tips to Pass the TSA CBT X-Ray Test
Speed + Accuracy: Train to answer quickly without sacrificing precision.
Don’t second guess: Trust your visual instinct—there’s no time to dwell.
Know your object library: Familiarize yourself with hundreds of everyday and threatening items.
Focus on outlines: Edges often reveal more than colors or textures.
Identify by material: Even if the shape is unclear, color and density help determine the object type.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overanalyzing: You have limited time. Stick to your first impression unless you're absolutely unsure.
Ignoring the object’s orientation: An item upside-down or sideways still counts—practice seeing it from all angles.
Assuming certain items are always safe: A pair of scissors in a child’s backpack can still be dangerous. Context doesn’t matter—focus on the object itself.
Skipping practice: The ORT is skill-based. You won’t pass by just reading guides—you must practice with visuals.
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