PELLETB QuickPass: Pass the POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) 2025 on Your First Try + Free Practice Test
The POST PELLET-B exam is the barrier to entry for every California peace officer academy. It measures your core reading and writing skills, but your success hinges on one thing: your T-score.
Here’s the reality: a score of 42 is a pass. A score of 48 or higher gets you interviews. Which do you want? In a field where every advantage matters, your test score is the first impression you make on recruiters.
Most prep courses aim for a pass. The PELLET-B QuickPass is engineered for the top of the list. We provide a simulated test environment and cutting-edge strategies to elevate your performance into the competitive zone.
Ready to be a top candidate? See how our prep course delivers results.
Free PELLET B Practice Test
PELLET-B can be challenging for first-time test-takers. Try our free PELLET B practice test to familiarize yourself with the format and identify areas for improvement, with detailed explanations for every question.
PELLET B Practice Test
What is the Pellet B Test?
The POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) is California’s standardized written exam for assessing the reading and writing skills of peace officer applicants. Required under Commission Regulation 1951, it ensures that candidates have the language abilities essential for the role.
Also known as the “POST Reading and Writing Test,” the PELLETB acts as a filter in the hiring process, confirming that only applicants with strong communication skills advance—an ability directly tied to effective performance in the field.
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Solid review course that covers the relevant topics in good detail
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Highly recommended.Great instructional information. I passed on the first try.
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To say that Prepterminal helped me prepare and be ready for the testing phase would be an understatement. At first, looking at the course, I felt overwhelmed with the course material, but the course broke down each subject effectively which made it easier to understand. There were a few issues with some of the audio portion of the testing course, but beyond that, the course was well worth the money.
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Format of the Pellet B Test
The PELLET-B is a standardized, in-person exam given by approved agencies in California. Candidates answer 85–100 multiple-choice questions in about 2 hours and 15 minutes (30 minutes of instructions plus 1 hour 45 minutes of testing). Designed for law enforcement applicants, it evaluates English proficiency in two sections: Writing Ability and Reading Ability.
Below, we break down each section into its core components to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
Writing Ability
This section evaluates your proficiency in written communication and consists of three distinct sub-tests. Each sub-test contains between 15 and 18 items designed to pinpoint your mastery of common language challenges encountered in law enforcement work.
Sentence Clarity
In this sub-test, you are presented with sentences and asked to identify the one that is most clearly and correctly written. The focus is on detecting common writing errors such as unclear references, misplaced modifiers, sentence fragments, and run-on sentences.
Spellings
This sub-test follows a standard multiple-choice format. A sentence is provided with one word omitted, indicated by a blank, and you must choose from four alternative spellings the word that is correctly spelled for the given context.
Vocabulary
In the vocabulary sub-test, a sentence is given with one word underlined. Your task is to select the alternative that is the most accurate synonym or definition for the underlined word. The words featured here are commonly used in law enforcement settings.
Reading Ability
This section measures your capacity to process and comprehend complex texts—a critical skill for interpreting laws, reports, and instructions in the field.
Reading Comprehension
In this sub-test, you will encounter passages that range from a single paragraph to an entire page. You must answer between 20 and 24 multiple-choice questions based on these passages, which cover everyday concepts and are designed to test your ability to analyze, interpret, and derive meaning from written material under time constraints.
PELLET B Sample Questions
Here are some sample questions similar to what you might encounter on the PELLET B Test.
*Screenshot from Pellet-B QuickPass
PELLET B QuickPass
Course Content
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Introduction 1 StepBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides. -
Sentence Clarity 7 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides. -
Spellings 7 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides. -
Vocabulary 8 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides. -
Reading Comprehension 6 StepsBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides. -
Bonus - Interview Process 1 StepBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides. -
Bonus - Medical Evaluation 1 StepBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
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Bonus - Background Screening Procedure 1 StepBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
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Bonus - Psychological Evaluation 1 StepBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
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Bonus - Polygraph Test 1 StepBuy this Course: Get full access to all lessons, practice tests and guides.
Understanding the Pellet B Scores (PELLETB T-Score)
Your performance on the PELLET-B is reported as a T-score—a standardized measurement that places your results on a bell curve, with an average (mean) of 50 and a standard deviation of 10. In practical terms:
- Scores Above 50: Indicate above-average performance, making you more competitive for law enforcement roles.
- Scores Around 40 or Below: Suggest you might need additional preparation before reapplying.
- Passing Criteria: Many agencies consider 42 the minimum passing T-score, though more selective departments may require 45 or even 50+.
There’s no penalty for guessing on the PELLET-B, so every question is an opportunity to boost your raw score. While your T-score does not officially expire according to POST, individual agencies often impose their own validity periods (e.g., within the last 6 or 12 months). Higher scores remain valid and can be reused if they meet each agency’s timeline requirements.
Below is a visual representation of the PELLET B T-score distribution, illustrating how scores are typically spread across test-takers:
By aiming for the high 40s or above, you not only meet standard requirements but also stand out in a competitive hiring process. Our course will guide you through targeted strategies to boost your score and clarify how each point on the T-score scale can open doors in your future career.
PELLET B QuickPass: No risk. No wait. Just the tools to crush the competition.
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Why Choose PELLET-B QuickPass?
Acing the PELLET-B demands more than just a basic review of reading and writing fundamentals. Our specialized prep course provides a structured learning path tailored to the unique challenges of this exam, ensuring you develop the exact skills agencies are looking for. Here’s what sets us apart:
Practice Quizzes for Each Section: Engage with targeted quizzes that help you master the specific question types you’ll encounter on the exam, allowing you to build confidence and accuracy step by step.
Expert-Guided Lessons: Learn from seasoned professionals who understand the nuances of the PELLET-B and can offer insider tips to boost your performance.
Instant Feedback & Analytics: Pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses immediately, so you can focus on the areas that need the most attention.
Comprehensive Study Resources: Access detailed study guides, practice questions, and step-by-step explanations, all designed to build your confidence and mastery.
Bonus Resources for Deeper Understanding: Delve into advanced drills and specialized techniques for each section tested on the exam, reinforcing your learning and providing a clear rationale behind every concept.
Flexible Study Schedule: Fit your preparation around work, family, or other commitments, without sacrificing the depth or quality of your study.
No Prior Experience Required – Our course is beginner-friendly, allowing you to start from scratch and achieve test success.
By targeting the specific reading, writing, and analytical skills tested on the PELLET-B, our course equips you to walk into the exam with the clarity, speed, and precision needed to achieve a competitive T-score.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
How much does it cost to take the PELLET B?
Most of the time, there is no fee to take the PELLETB. However, some agencies may charge a small fee for the test.
What to wear for the PELLET B test?
For the PELLET B test, wear business casual or professional attire—such as a dress shirt or blouse, slacks or dress pants, and polished shoes—to maintain a clean, respectful appearance during the written exam. If a physical assessment is included, opt for athletic clothing that allows free movement, like activewear and athletic shoes. When in doubt, bring a change of clothes to be prepared for both components.
What happens if you don't pass the PELLET B test?
If you do not pass the PELLETB test, you can retake it after 30 days. Most agencies require a score of at least 42 to be considered competitive.
How many times can you take the PELLET B?
You can retake the PELLET B exam multiple times; however, you must wait a minimum of 30 calendar days before taking it again, even if you are testing with a different agency.
How do you know if you have passed the PELLET B?
You will receive your results within 30 days of taking the test. However, POST does not provide results directly to candidates; instead, you will be notified by the agency you applied to.
What to expect on the PELLETB Test?
The PELLETB assesses writing and reading abilities through multiple-choice questions. It includes sections on clarity, spelling, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Expect approximately 65-78 questions with a time limit of about 2.5 hours.
Where and how can I take the PELLET B?
The PELLETB is administered by authorized law enforcement agencies and training academies within California. It is not available for direct registration through POST online. If you’re applying for a job, the hiring agency will schedule your test. Some academies also offer open testing sessions. Be sure to verify the test date, location, and any registration requirements with the specific agency or academy.
Can my agency continue to administer the PELLET B with the CLOZE sub-test?
No. All test administrations on or after January 1, 2025, will use the new version of the PELLETB, which excludes the CLOZE sub-test. Agencies do not have the option to choose a version with the CLOZE section.
How long is my Pellet B test score valid?
A PELLET B score has no official shelf life, meaning you may submit your score letter from a previous administration to a prospective employer. However, individual departments may have their own acceptable time frames for how recent a score must be.
What is a good PELLET B test score?
While the minimum recommended T-score is 42, scoring in the mid-40s or higher is generally considered competitive. A T-score of 50 is average, and scores of 60 or higher are well above average and suggest a strong likelihood of success in police academy training. Individual agency requirements may vary, so it’s wise to aim for as high a score as possible.
What is the psychological and polygraph test for police applicants?
The psychological evaluation assesses emotional stability, decision-making, and stress tolerance through a written test and an interview with a licensed psychologist.
The polygraph test (lie detector) verifies the truthfulness of an applicant’s background, covering topics like criminal history, drug use, and personal integrity.
Need help preparing? Our Police Psych Prep Course and Polygraph Preparation Guide provide expert strategies to help you succeed.
Which police departments in California use the PELLET B?
Many police departments in California require candidates to take the POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLET B) as part of their hiring process. Some of the agencies that use the PELLET B include:
- California Highway Patrol (CHP)
- San Francisco Police Department
- Anaheim Police Department
- San Jose Police Department
- Alameda Police Department
- Albany Police Department
- Berkeley Police Department
- Fremont Police Department
- Hayward Police Department
- Livermore Police Department
- Oakland Police Department
- Pleasanton Police Department
- Long Beach Police Department
- Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)
- Torrance Police Department
- Oceanside Police Department
- Santa Clara Police Department
- Mountain View Police Department
- Palo Alto Police Department
- Buena Park Police Department
- Huntington Beach Police Department
- Citrus Heights Police Department
- Folsom Police Department
Which police departments accept PELLET B scores instead of their own written exam?
Several California law enforcement agencies accept PELLETB scores from external testing agencies, but requirements vary by department regarding score validity and minimum T-scores. Here are some examples:
- Sacramento Police Department: Candidates must take the City of Sacramento Entry Level Law Enforcement Exam (Pass/Fail). However, applicants with a PELLET B T-score of 45 or higher are exempt from taking this exam.
- Beverly Hills Police Department: Candidates with a PELLET B T-score of 50 or greater do not need to take the department’s written test and can proceed in the hiring process.
- Chula Vista Police Department: Accepts PELLETB scores dated within six months of the test date. A T-score of 46 or above exempts the candidate from taking the written test.
- San Diego Police Department: If a candidate has taken the PELLETB within six months of applying and has scored 42 or higher in all areas, they are exempt from the department’s written test.
- Fullerton Police Department: Does not conduct the PELLETB but accepts scores from other agencies if the applicant has a T-score of 46 or higher.
- Santa Ana Police Department: Accepts PELLET B scores within one year of application with a T-score of 46 or higher.
- Corona Police Department: Conducts its own written test but accepts PELLET B scores of 42 or higher if taken within three years of the application date.
- Fontana Police Department: Accepts PELLET B scores of 45 or higher, provided the test was taken within one year of applying. Scores must be submitted on official agency letterhead at the time of application.
- San Bernardino Police Department: Accepts PELLET B scores of 42 or higher.
- Oxnard Police Department: Accepts PELLET B scores not older than 12 months.
- Simi Valley Police Department: If a candidate has taken the PELLETB within the last year and earned a T-score of 45 or higher, they may submit their score instead of taking the National Testing Network (NTN) exam.
- Ventura Police Department: Accepts PELLET B scores in lieu of their own written exam.
