Nelson-Denny Reading Test: Format, Questions and Prep Tips (2026)
Are you about to take the Nelson-Denny Reading test?
The strict time limit of the Vocabulary (15 minutes to answer 80 questions) and Reading Comprehension (20 minutes to answer 36-38 questions) sections add an additional layer of difficulty, making it essential for candidates to engage in extensive preparation to improve their solution speed and maximize their chances of success.
The Nelson-Denny Practice Pack includes the following:
Each practice test question contains detailed answers and explanations
The Nelson-Denny test (NDRT) is a multiple choice online exam comprised of two main sections vocabulary and reading comprehension and is used as an initial screening tool for entry-level police positions and academy training requiring good reading and comprehension skills.
You have only 20 minutes to answer 36-38 reading comprehension questions, or 30 seconds per question, and 15 minutes to answer 80-100 vocabulary questions or 9 seconds per question.
So it's vital to use an accurate test-like practice test that will simulate real test conditions and give you a true indication of your current skill level.
Here is a good example of the instructions you’ll see in the real exam
“In this study guide, you will find a word list consisting of 300 words you should be familiar with before taking the examination. The word list is also accompanied by two sample questions similar to what you will be expected to answer during the examination.
You will also find two similar examples of the type of reading comprehension passages and questions you will be expected to answer during the Reading Comprehension section of the examination.
Prior to the beginning of the test, a proctor will give concise instructions regarding the
examination. A passing score of 102 is required to proceed in the hiring process.”
Source: https://www.austintexas.gov/
The Nelson-Denny Reading test is a challenging law enforcement pre-employment exam.
What makes the test difficult is the fact you have only 35 minutes to answer 128 questions or 16 seconds per question.
Having access to accurate practice will improve your problem-solving speed and help you become familiar with various question formats and strategies for solving them.
If you're here, you've already taken an important step towards passing the Nelson Denny assessment, and we're here to help you advance that extra step toward your goal.
The following is a typical test-day procedure you may encounter when applying for a job at a police department in your area.
Two tests are used in pre hire testing to assess your ability to handle real on-the-job demands: The online Nelson-Denny Reading Test and the Police Officer Physical Abilities Test (POPAT).
The Nelson-Denny test includes two sections:
The POPAT includes physical exercises that will test your endurance. To feel comfortable and prepared for the test, applicants should practice these exercises before the day of the test.
Chase and Apprehension Scenario
The steps include actions such as a broad jump over a 4-foot area, going over a 4-foot fence, 20 pushups, and crawling under a 2-foot obstacle.
Rescue Scenario
You must complete the rescue scenario in a maximum time of 3 minutes and 30 seconds. It includes actions such as: Drag the dummy backward across the 25-foot mark, advancing 50 feet around the cone and back 2 times and completing 30 steps on the step box.
Practice is key to passing the Nelson Denny exam and successfully dealing with the strict time constraints that this exam has.
JobTestPrep provides you with the tools needed for comprehensive exam preparation including Nelson-Denny practice tests, detailed questions analysis, study guides, an extensive list of vocabulary words, and detailed Nelson-Denny PDF guides that cover every aspect of the test and offer strategies to overcome them.
As you work through test sample questions, you will refresh your vocabulary and gain a greater comfort level with the process of reading passages, recalling information, and drawing conclusions from written material.
If you are looking for a different test, or are not sure which test is relevant for your position, please contact us, and we will do our best to ensure you get the most accurate preparation for your upcoming assessment.
