How to Pass the OSHA 10 Test on the First Try

Most employers want their employees to earn the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 certification to prevent accidents before they happen. It is essential to know how to pass OSHA 10 as you need at least 70% to pass and earn your card. The minimum score requirement makes many feel anxious about the test. However, in contrast, the OSHA 10 exam is quite manageable to clear with thorough preparation and commitment. 

So, how to ace the OSHA test on your very first attempt? Keep on reading to find out!

Read More: How Hard Is the OSHA 10 Test?

What is OSHA 10, and Why Do You Need a Test?

OSHA 10 is a basic safety training program for entry-level workers in construction and general industry. The course helps you understand workplace hazards, safety rules, and employee rights. You’ll need to complete all modules and pass the test to earn your certification.

So, why the test? It’s there to make sure you can actually apply what you’ve learned in real job settings. OSHA equips every worker to spot risks, follow proper safety steps, and prevent accidents before they happen. The test proves that your safety knowledge isn’t just theoretical. It is something you can use every day on-site.

What to Consider Before Attending the OSHA 10 Exam?

OSHA has strict testing requirements that you must adhere to earn your OSHA 10 card as a new worker. Here are employees or teams should know about the exam:  

• Every time you complete each module, you are given a 10-question module quiz. 

• After completing all the modules, you must pass a final exam with 20 questions. 

• You have 180 days from the date of your registration to complete the 10-hour Construction Outreach Training. After the period, your account expires, and you need to purchase the course again.

How to Pass the OSHA 10 Exam on Your First Try? Proven Tips

To properly understand how to pass the OSHA 10 exam, you need to follow focused study methods that will help you retain the concepts better. Here are some proven preparation strategies: 

Take Detailed Notes During Each Module

Instead of simply watching videos or reading slides, write down key concepts, definitions, and safety procedures as you move through each module.  It will allow you to focus on understanding the "why" behind each safety rule, not just the "what."  Try to opt for handwritten notes as they can improve your memory retention better than typing.

Focus Your Study Sessions On High-Priority Topics

Concentrate on the most frequently tested and critical safety concepts to pass your certification. It includes: 

• Hazard Recognition and Communication

• Fall Protection Systems

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Electrical Safety Standards

• Fire Prevention and Emergency Response

• Struck-By and Caught-In/Between Hazards

• Excavation and Trenching Safety

• Materials Handling and Storage

• Walking and Working Surfaces

• Workers' Rights and Employer Responsibilities

Complete All Practice Quizzes Thoroughly

Every module includes practice questions before the graded quiz. Always take the OSHA 10 practice test quiz seriously and review every wrong answer. Learn why incorrect options are wrong to have a better overall understanding. Try to repeat practice quizzes until you consistently score above 80%.

Create Visual Study Aids and Flashcards

Visual learning tools help you remember complex safety protocols. In fact, you can quiz yourself daily using these cards during commute time or breaks. Here are some tips to make better visual aids:

• Draw diagrams of fall protection systems or electrical hazard zones. 

• Make flashcards for OSHA regulations

• Use colors to categorize different hazard types. 

Study in Short and Consistent  Sessions

Your brain can retain more information better through spaced repetition. It means study for 25-30 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This study technique prevents mental fatigue and maintains your concentration. Try to go through your study material across multiple days rather than cramming sessions on a single day.

Read More: 5 Simple Ways to Prepare for OSHA 10 Construction as a New Worker

What are the Techniques to Follow During the OSHA 10 Exam?

Even with solid knowledge in important topics, poor test-taking strategies can affect your success. The following OSHA 10 passing tips will help you answer each question without any stress:

Read Every Question Twice Before Answering

Read each question completely, and analyze what the question actually asks before looking at the answers. Watch for words like "except," "not," or "always" that change meaning. Many wrong answers appear correct if you misread the question.

Eliminate Obviously Wrong Answers First

Multiple-choice tests become easier through the process of elimination. Cross out answers you know are incorrect immediately. This improves your odds even when you're uncertain. It will help you make better guesses rather than leaving questions blank.

Look for Keywords and Specific Numbers

OSHA regulations include precise measurements, percentages, and requirements like six feet, 70%, or 30 days. OSHA test questions often test your knowledge of these specific details. 

How to Manage Anxiety During the OSHA 10 Exam?

You may feel nervous before exams, no matter how well you are prepared. Take a look at these simple OSHA 10 exam tips to stay calm and focused,

• Practice Breathing Exercises Before Starting: Deep breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress. It will clear your mind and improve focus. 

• Know that you Have Backup Attempts Available: You have three attempts to clear the OSHA 10 exam. But the reminder is to reduce your pressure to approach the test confidently, not carelessly. 

• Trust Your Preparation, and Yourself: You have spent your time and put your effort into learning the key topics. So stay confident and believe in yourself. 

Common Mistakes To Avoid During the OSHA 10 Exam

During the OSHA 10 exam, some students make predictable errors that cost them their passing score. Here's what you can learn from others' mistakes instead of repeating them.

Skipping or Rushing Through Content

Don’t try to fast-forward through videos or skip practice quizzes. The system tracks your engagement and requires minimal time per module. When you rush through content, you cannot learn the concept and the question styles to expect in the test.

Waiting Until the Last Minute to Study

Like any other situation, procrastinating the preparation for the OSHA 10 exam creates unnecessary stress. Moreover, last-minute cramming overloads your memory without a deeper understanding of the concepts. Start your course weeks before your deadline to have ample review time.

Ignoring the Importance of Real-World Application

You cannot simply memorize the concepts without understanding their application in real-world emergencies. Leads to confusion. Try to practice visualizing each theoretical concept in a realistic workplace context to avoid confusion and enhance retention.

Read More: Are OSHA 10 Online Certifications Recognized by Employers?

What Happens After You Pass the OSHA 10 Exam?

Clearing your OSHA 10 exam is the beginning of your career. Your OSHA 10 card opens doors to safer, better-paying employment opportunities. Here are some steps to be aware of to get the most out of your certification,

Receive Your Official OSHA Card

Once you ace the final exam, your training provider submits your completion data to OSHA's system. Then, you will receive your official OSHA card, which has your unique identification number. within 3-4 weeks.  

Know Card Validity and Renewal

OSHA 10 cards don't technically expire, but many employers prefer employees with up-to-date training. Try to enroll in refresher training every 2-3 years to stay aware of safety updates and regulation changes. You can also enroll in OSHA 30 for supervisory roles. 

Apply Your Knowledge on the Jobsite

 NSC reports workplace injuries cost employers an average of $1,080 per worker in 2023. It means even though you clear your OSHA 10 test on your first attempt, your employer will realize your real value when you apply those safety principles in daily work. For instance, if you find any hazards in your workplace,  speak up about unsafe conditions. 

Start Smart and Get OSHA Certified on First Try!

You now possess a comprehensive roadmap showing how to pass OSHA 10 on your first attempt. OSHA investigated 826 worker deaths in 2024, each one easily preventable with proper safety awareness. It means you need to plan your roadmap on how to pass OSHA 10 to protect yourself and your colleagues from workplace hazards. 

Make sure to start your course early, study consistently, and review materials multiple times. Remember, modern employers value people who take their safety seriously and invest in proper training. Sign up for our online OSHA 10-hour course today to ace your test on your first try, ensuring your workplace safety expertise, at your convenience.

FAQs

1. How can I pass the OSHA 10 test easily?

Review each module carefully, take notes, and focus on real-world examples. The questions are practical, not tricky. If you understand the concepts, you’ll pass without memorizing everything.

2. What score do I need to pto ass the OSHA 10 test?

You need at least 70% on each module quiz pass. Most learners manage this easily by reviewing key points and using OSHA’s study materials between sessions.

3. How many questions are on the OSHA 10 test?

Each module quiz usually has 10–15 multiple-choice questions. You can retake a quiz if needed, so focus on understanding safety concepts rather than stressing about the question count.

4. Can I retake the OSHA 10 test if I fail?

Yes, most OSHA-authorized providers let you retake failed quizzes until you pass. It’s designed for learning, not punishment, so use feedback to improve and move forward confidently.

References

• Prepare for an OSHA 10 Hour Test: How to - Stay Certified

• 5 Tips You Need to Pass Your Safety Certification Exam

• How to Create a Workplace Safety Quiz