What Is the Passing Score for the TNCC Exam? (Written & Skills Test, 2025 Update)

When I first started preparing for the Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) exam, one of my biggest questions was: “What score do I actually need to pass?” If you’re wondering the same thing, you’re not alone. Knowing the passing requirements for both the written exam and the skills test can help you study smarter and avoid surprises on test day.

Understanding the TNCC Exam Structure

The TNCC exam, developed by the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA), has two major components:

  1. Written Exam – A multiple-choice test that assesses your trauma knowledge.
  2. Skills Station (Trauma Nursing Process Test) – A live, hands-on scenario where you demonstrate the ABCDE assessment and trauma interventions.

To earn your TNCC provider certification, you must pass both parts of the exam.

Passing Score for the TNCC Written Exam

The written portion of the TNCC exam typically contains 50 multiple-choice questions.

  • Passing Score (2025): You must score at least 80%.
  • That usually means getting 40 out of 50 questions correct.
  • The questions are directly based on the TNCC Provider Manual (9th Edition), so studying from official materials is essential.

What Makes the Written Exam Tricky?

  • Questions are scenario-based, requiring application of trauma principles, not just memorization.
  • Some answers may feel similar — you’ll need to know ENA’s preferred order of interventions.
  • You must be confident in primary and secondary survey steps, shock management, and trauma prioritization.

Passing Score for the TNCC Skills Test

The skills station is often the most stressful part of the TNCC exam. In this portion, you’ll be given a simulated trauma patient and must walk through the ABCDE assessment (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure).

  • Passing Requirement: You must successfully demonstrate all critical steps of the trauma nursing process.
  • The evaluator will check off a list of mandatory actions. Missing a critical step (such as airway management or recognizing hemorrhage) usually results in failure.
  • Unlike the written exam, there isn’t a numeric score — it’s more of a pass/fail skills check.

How Hard Is It to Pass Both Exams?

Most nurses pass the TNCC exam if they prepare properly, but the skills station is where people stumble. Why? Because it requires quick thinking, confidence, and practice under pressure.

Pro Tip: Run through trauma scenarios repeatedly with peers or instructors. The more automatic the ABCDE assessment feels, the more likely you’ll pass.

Pro Study Tip 📘

Want to make sure you pass both the written exam and the skills test? Practice makes all the difference.

👉 Check out our TNCC Practice Questions + Study Guide — updated for 2025 with realistic trauma scenarios and detailed rationales. It’s designed to help you hit that 80% score and master the skills station with confidence.

How to Prepare for Success

To increase your chances of passing on the first try:

  1. Focus on the 80% Rule – Aim higher than the bare minimum; target 85–90% on practice tests.
  2. Practice the Trauma Nursing Process – Drill the ABCDE approach until you can do it without hesitation.
  3. Use Official ENA Resources – The Provider Manual is your blueprint for success.
  4. Take Timed Practice Exams – Mimic test-day pressure to avoid rushing or second-guessing.
  5. Stay Calm During Skills Testing – Confidence and organization often matter as much as knowledge.

So, What Is the Passing Score for TNCC?

  • Written Exam: 80% or higher (40/50 questions).
  • Skills Station: Must complete all critical steps (pass/fail).

Both parts are required to earn your TNCC certification. With the right preparation, the passing score is well within reach.

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