CTRS Practice Test 2026 — Free CTRS Exam Prep Questions
The NCTRC certification exam is the entry-level credentialing exam for recreational therapists who want the CTRS credential. It tests the APIE process (assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation) along with professionalism and administration. Our original scenario questions follow the 2021 Job Analysis exam content outline and explain every option.
A community program leader the client plans to join after discharge calls to ask about her progress. What should the CTRS do first?
CTRS format, scoring & key facts
Computer-based through Pearson VUE, at test centers or by OnVUE live remote proctoring. Offered in English, French-Canadian and Spanish (Latin America). Questions can be marked for review; the test cannot be reviewed once exited.
| Questions | 120 multiple-choice questions (3- and 4-option), about 17% unscored pretest |
|---|---|
| Time | 3 hours |
| Passing score | 293 on a 100–500 scaled score |
| Content outline | Based on the 2021 Job Analysis Study, in effect since the January 2023 exam administration |
| Delivery | Pearson VUE test centers or OnVUE live remote proctoring |
| Languages | English, French-Canadian, Spanish (Latin America) |
| Exam fee | $350 (plus $125 Professional Eligibility review) |
| Eligibility | Bachelor's degree or higher with the required RT/TR and supportive coursework, plus a 560-hour, 14-week internship supervised by CTRSs (or qualifying paid work experience) |
| Retakes | No more than one exam within 30 days |
| Recertification | Every 5 years: 480 hours of experience + 50 hours of continuing education, or reexamination |
Facts last verified Nov 3, 2026. Source: nctrc.org/wp-content/uploads/ExamContentOutline2023.pdf. Always confirm details with NCTRC before your exam.
When can you take the CTRS?
Continuous testing from January 5 to November 30, 2026 (and January 4 to November 30, 2027). December is a blackout: you can register then, but appointments start on January 4, 2027. Schedule within 90 days of NCTRC's approval email.
What the CTRS covers
Every PrepBanq CTRS test mirrors the official domain weights.
Domain distribution
% of the exam| Content domain | Weight | ≈ Questions on exam | Our practice questions |
|---|---|---|---|
ProfessionalismDeveloping professional relationships and maintaining professional competency: team communication, advocacy, cultural competence, evidence-based practice, Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. | 12% | ~14 | 18 questions → |
AssessmentConducting the assessment process and applying assessment data to plan care: tools, primary and secondary data, strengths and barriers, goals and objectives. | 19% | ~23 | 28 questions → |
PlanningDeveloping the individualized plan of care and designing program services: service delivery models, theories of practice, interventions, activity modifications and activity/task analysis. | 18% | ~22 | 27 questions → |
ImplementationDelivering program services and adhering to risk management protocols: facilitation and leadership, group dynamics, monitoring, consent, safety and precautions. | 25% | ~30 | 38 questions → |
Evaluation and DocumentationDocumenting client progress and incidents: progress notes, discharge/transition plans, team communication and summative program evaluation. | 16% | ~19 | 24 questions → |
AdministrationMaintaining department documentation and assigning and monitoring personnel: plan of operation, fiscal management, regulations, supervision and the internship program. | 10% | ~12 | 15 questions → |
How to register for the CTRS
Retake policy
One exam within 30 days: after an unsuccessful attempt you may register again after 30 days while your Professional Eligibility is active.
Score release
Pass or fail is shown on screen when you finish; the official score report is in your Pearson VUE account. Passing candidates are not given a numeric score.
Credential renewal
Professional Eligibility is valid for 5 years. The CTRS credential runs on a 5-year cycle with annual maintenance; recertify with 480 hours of professional experience plus 50 hours of continuing education, or by passing the exam again.
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CTRS FAQ
How many questions are on the CTRS?
The CTRS has 120 questions and you have 3 hours to finish. Question types: Multiple choice with a single best answer: a mixture of 3-option and 4-option items. About 17% are unscored pretest items placed randomly in the form..
How long is the CTRS exam?
Testing time for the CTRS is 3 hours.
What is the passing score for the CTRS?
CTRS passing standard: Scaled score of 293 on a 100–500 scale. Score range: 100–500 (scaled).
How much does the CTRS cost?
The CTRS registration fee is $350 exam registration fee; $125 Professional Eligibility review fee (fees effective July 1, 2025). Check the official site for current fees before you register.
What is on the CTRS?
The CTRS covers Professionalism (about 12%), Assessment (about 19%), Planning (about 18%), Implementation (about 25%), Evaluation and Documentation (about 16%), Administration (about 10%).
Who administers the CTRS?
The NCTRC Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) Exam is administered by NCTRC. Delivery: Computer-based through Pearson VUE, at test centers or by OnVUE live remote proctoring. Offered in English, French-Canadian and Spanish (Latin America). Questions can be marked for review; the test cannot be reviewed once exited..
Can you retake the CTRS?
One exam within 30 days: after an unsuccessful attempt you may register again after 30 days while your Professional Eligibility is active.
Is there a free CTRS practice test?
Yes. PrepBanq has 15 free CTRS practice tests with 150 exam-style questions in the real CTRS formats, and every answer is explained. No credit card is needed.
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