2026–2030 NBHWC Content Outline
NBHWC Board Exam format, timing and passing score
The NBHWC Board Exam has 150 multiple-choice questions across two sections of 75 questions. Each section allows 112 minutes. The computer-based Prometric appointment lasts about four and a half hours, including a tutorial, break time and a survey. NBHWC applies a consistent competency standard across exam forms and does not publish a single numerical cutoff.
How is the appointment divided?
The 2027 packet lists a 15-minute tutorial, two question sections, up to 15 minutes of break time between them and a 15-minute survey. When you close a section, its questions are locked. Make your final review before submitting that section. Open both sections to receive a score.
| Appointment stage | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tutorial | — | 15 minutes |
| Section 1 | 75 | 112 minutes |
| Break between sections | — | Up to 15 minutes |
| Section 2 | 75 | 112 minutes |
| Post-test survey | — | 15 minutes |
How can you rehearse the section timing?
As a rehearsal, use 35 minutes for the first 25 questions, another 35 for the next 25 and another 35 for the final 25. That leaves seven minutes to revisit uncertain choices. Adjust those checkpoints after one timed attempt, especially if you regularly run short in the last group.
Practice the break and the second start as well. A two-section rehearsal helps you see whether errors cluster near the end of the first section or after the break. Record the time and the type of error so the next rehearsal targets a real issue.
What should you bring to Prometric?
Read your appointment confirmation and the ID section of your permit before traveling. The packet asks candidates to arrive about 30 minutes early. Bring your scheduling permit, on paper or electronically, and original, valid government-issued identification with your photograph and signature. Check that the names on the permit and ID match exactly.
Follow the center’s directions for storing personal items and checking in again after the break. If you have an approved accommodation, follow the appointment instructions issued for that approval. Contact the exam administrators in advance if your permit details are wrong or you are unsure whether your identification will be accepted.
How are the passing score and results determined?
NBHWC adjusts for differences in difficulty across exam forms so candidates are held to the same standard. Its candidate FAQ explains why a single published cutoff would be misleading. Treat the percentage from any practice test as a record of how you performed on that set of questions.
The 2027 packet estimates that results will be available about eight weeks after the testing window closes. Watch for a notification directing you to your online score report. If you are preparing for another attempt, start with the feedback on that report and use the content outline to choose what to revisit.
What happens if you need another attempt?
The packet sets a limit of three attempts before retraining, including incomplete attempts. Each attempt requires a new application and the full applicable fees. If you have used all three without passing, the packet requires another approved program and the NBHWC FAQ also specifies a new coaching log. Confirm the training and log requirements with NBHWC before paying or enrolling.
Use the next window’s application dates to plan a retake. Leave enough time to address the weaker areas on your report and to rehearse a full section under the actual time limit.