From answers to a standardized score
POST's public FAQ says statistical calculations convert a raw score—the number correct after subtracting a portion of a point for incorrect responses—into a T-score. A T-score places performance within a distribution of other examinees rather than reporting only a classroom-style percentage.
The public examinee guide also explains that each of the 11 tests contributes equal weight to the total. Because the sections contain different tasks and may have different numbers of items, adding all correct answers into one practice percentage does not recreate that equal-weight standardized process.
What the T-score bands mean
These descriptions do not create one statewide hiring cutoff. An employer may set a minimum, rank candidates, treat everyone above a threshold equally for the next stage, or combine the written score with other assessments. Ask the hiring agency how it uses the result.
- Around 50: average compared with other candidates in the scoring reference group.
- 40 or below: below-average relative performance, according to POST's applicant FAQ.
- 60 or above: above-average relative performance, according to POST's applicant FAQ.
Wrong answers and blank answers
The official guide states that a fraction of a point is subtracted for a wrong answer, while a blank item does not count for or against the score. It says there is no advantage to random guessing. Apply the instructions and pacing strategy given by the current test administrator; the official source controls if procedures change.
A practice app may show raw accuracy and an educational chance-corrected value to help compare attempts. Those numbers are feedback tools only. They are not POST T-scores, pass/fail decisions, or predictions of agency outcomes.
Results, score letters, and retesting
POST's applicant FAQ says agencies using the POST test must provide candidates their results within 30 days. It also says the POST score itself has no shelf life, but departments may set their own acceptable time frame and decide whether to accept a score letter from another administration.
Candidates may retake the exam, but POST requires a 30-calendar-day wait; the next valid test date is at least 31 days after the most recent administration. A retest within 30 days can invalidate the result, even if it occurs through a different agency.
Verify with the source
Official sources and further reading
Applicant procedures and agency requirements can change. Use these California POST pages to confirm current information and follow the directions from your testing agency.