DAA Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The DAA (Defence Aptitude Assessment) is the critical gateway examination for joining the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. Formerly known as the Naval Service Recruiting Test (NSRT), the Defence Aptitude Assessment evaluates your cognitive abilities across verbal, numerical, mechanical, and spatial reasoning domains.
Success on the DAA test determines not only your eligibility to join but also which specific trades and roles are open to you. Whether you are aiming for a technical role in the Royal Navy DAA pipeline or a specialized position in the RAF, achieving a high score is essential. Our free DAA practice test resources are designed to mirror the real exam format and help you secure your ideal military career.
The DAA exam is adaptive and timed, requiring quick thinking and accuracy. Scores are valid for 12 months for Royal Navy DAA applicants. Preparation is key, as your score directly impacts your career options within the armed forces.
Free DAA Exam Questions
Prepare for your assessment with our specialized DAA practice questions. Each module focuses on a specific cognitive skill tested in the Defence Aptitude Assessment.
DAA Exam Flashcards
Quick review for key DAA concepts
DAA Exam Study Guide
Master the essentials of the Defence Aptitude Assessment with this comprehensive guide. Click through the tabs to learn about the Royal Navy DAA format, scoring, and preparation strategies.
| What is the DAA exam? | The DAA exam (Defence Aptitude Assessment) is a psychometric test used by the Royal Navy and RAF to assess a candidate's cognitive suitability for military service. |
| Who takes the DAA test? | Anyone applying to join the Royal Navy or Royal Air Force as a non-commissioned recruit must take the DAA test as part of the selection process. |
| Is the DAA exam hard? | The DAA exam can be challenging due to its strict time limits and diverse sections. Success requires practice with DAA practice questions to improve speed and accuracy. |
| What does DAA stand for? | DAA stands for Defence Aptitude Assessment, replacing the older Naval Service Recruiting Test (NSRT). |
| How many questions are on the DAA? | The DAA assessment typically consists of around 60-70 questions spread across multiple sections, though the exact number can vary in the adaptive format. |
| What subjects are on the DAA test? | The DAA test covers Verbal Reasoning, Numerical Reasoning, Work Rate, Spatial Reasoning, Electrical Comprehension, and Mechanical Comprehension. |
| Is the DAA exam timed? | Yes, the DAA exam is strictly timed. Each section has a specific time limit, making speed essential for a high score. |
| Can I use a calculator on the DAA? | No, calculators are generally not permitted during the DAA numerical reasoning section. You must rely on mental math and scratch paper. |
| How do I register for the DAA? | Registration for the DAA exam is handled by your Armed Forces Careers Office (AFCO) after you submit your initial application to the Royal Navy or RAF. |
| Where can I take the DAA test? | You can take the DAA test at a local AFCO or, in some cases, online as part of a virtual selection process. |
| Is the DAA exam free? | Yes, the DAA exam is free for all applicants as it is a mandatory part of the military recruitment process. |
| What do I need for the DAA? | On the day of your DAA assessment, bring valid photo ID and any documents requested by your recruiter. |
| What is a good DAA score? | A "good" DAA score depends on the specific trade you are applying for. Technical roles generally require higher scores in mechanical and electrical sections. |
| When do I get my DAA results? | You typically receive your DAA exam results immediately after completing the computer-based test at the AFCO. |
| What happens if I fail the DAA? | If you do not meet the required score on the DAA test, you may be offered a different role or given a chance to retake the exam after a waiting period. |
| How long are DAA scores valid? | DAA scores are typically valid for 12 months. If you reapply after this period, you will likely need to retake the exam. |
| How to study for the DAA? | The best way to study is by using free DAA practice tests that cover all six sections. Focus on your weakest areas to maximize your overall score. |
| Are there DAA practice tests? | Yes, numerous DAA practice test resources are available online, including our comprehensive quizzes for spatial and numerical reasoning. |
| Can I retake the DAA exam? | Yes, retakes are usually allowed for the DAA exam, but there is a mandatory waiting period between attempts, often 28 days or more. |
| What is the hardest part of the DAA? | Many candidates find the DAA spatial reasoning or mechanical comprehension sections most difficult if they lack a technical background. |
DAA Test Format and Sections
The DAA exam consists of six distinct sections designed to test different cognitive skills. Understanding this structure is crucial for your DAA assessment preparation.
Tests ability to interpret written information and draw logical conclusions. Critical for all Royal Navy DAA roles.
- Topics: Passage analysis, assumptions, deductions
- Questions: ~15-20 Questions
Evaluates ability to work with numbers, data, and graphs. A key component of the DAA test for technical trades.
- Topics: Arithmetic, fractions, percentages, charts
- Questions: ~15-20 Questions
Measures speed and accuracy in performing routine tasks. Requires intense focus during the DAA exam.
- Topics: Code matching, symbol replacement
- Questions: ~20 Questions
Assesses ability to visualize shapes in 2D and 3D. Essential for engineering roles in the Defence Aptitude Assessment.
- Topics: Shape folding, rotation, matching
- Questions: ~10-15 Questions
Tests knowledge of electrical principles. Vital for technical careers in the Royal Navy DAA pipeline.
- Topics: Series/parallel circuits, switches, batteries
- Questions: ~15 Questions
Evaluates understanding of physical forces and machinery. A core part of the DAA assessment.
- Topics: Mechanics, force, motion, tools
- Questions: ~15 Questions
Focus on your weakest areas. If you are applying for a technical role, pay extra attention to the DAA mechanical and electrical comprehension sections, as these carry more weight for engineering trades.
DAA Score Calculator
Estimate your potential DAA test performance based on practice results.
DAA Salary Information
Passing the DAA exam opens the door to Royal Navy careers with competitive starting salaries and progression.
| Rank / Role | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recruit (Training) | £16,844 | £1,400 | 0-6 Months |
| Able Rate | £23,496 | £1,950 | After Training |
| Leading Hand | £37,425 | £3,100 | 4-6 Years |
| Petty Officer | £42,849 | £3,570 | 8-12 Years |
| Warrant Officer | £56,470 | £4,700 | 18+ Years |
Passing the DAA exam allows you to join the Royal Navy, which offers a non-contributory pension scheme, six weeks of paid holiday, and free medical and dental care.
How to Become a Royal Navy Recruit
The DAA assessment is a pivotal step in the recruitment process. Here is the path from application to joining.
- Application - Submit your initial application online for the Royal Navy DAA process.
- DAA Assessment - Take the DAA test at your local AFCO. Practice with our free DAA questions beforehand.
- Triage Interview - Discuss your results and role suitability with a recruiter.
- Medical Exam - Complete a comprehensive medical assessment to ensure fitness for service.
- Fitness Test - Pass the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) relevant to your age and gender.
- Pre-Royal Navy Course - Attend a 4-day assessment course (PRNC) to prepare for basic training.
- Basic Training - Begin your 10-week initial training at HMS Raleigh.
DAA Test Costs
The DAA exam itself is free, but there are other costs associated with the recruitment process.
The financial cost to take the DAA exam is minimal as the Ministry of Defence covers most expenses. Your main investment is time spent preparing with DAA practice questions to ensure a passing score.
DAA Career Opportunities
High scores on the DAA test unlock prestigious roles in the Royal Navy.
DAA Testing Contacts
Contact official recruitment centers for DAA exam scheduling.
Search for "Armed Forces Careers Office near me" to find the nearest location to take your DAA exam and start your military application.
DAA Test Day Checklist
Ready to Pass the DAA Exam?
Start your journey to the Royal Navy today. Access our complete DAA practice test library and get certified.
START FREE DAA EXAMDAA Renewal and Retakes
Your DAA score is key to entry, but sometimes candidates need to retake the assessment. Here are the renewal rules.
If you fail the DAA exam, you may be allowed to retake it, but you typically must wait at least 28 days. Use this time to use free DAA study resources to improve your weak areas.
DAA Exam Questions and Answers
There is no single DAA pass mark. Each Royal Navy trade has its own specific score requirements for different sections of the DAA exam.
The DAA test typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete, including instructions and practice questions for each section.
You can access DAA practice test resources online from anywhere. For the official test, you will go to a local AFCO near you.
The Royal Navy DAA is considered challenging because of the time pressure. Regular practice with DAA exam questions is recommended.
The RAF uses a similar aptitude test, often referred to as the AST, but the DAA exam format is specific to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.
DAA questions cover verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, mechanical comprehension, electrical comprehension, spatial reasoning, and work rate.
Use a comprehensive study guide and take multiple DAA practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and time constraints.
No, calculators are not allowed in the DAA numerical reasoning section. You must perform calculations mentally or on scratch paper.
You are usually limited to two or three attempts at the DAA assessment. Failing repeatedly may disqualify you from joining.
The DAA work rate section tests your speed and accuracy in performing simple cognitive tasks, such as code matching, under time pressure.