Failed my CITB test twice — what am I doing wrong? — Forums

rachel_sOP

May 27, 2026

Right, so I'm at my wit's end here. I've sat the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test twice now and failed both times — got 43 the first time and 44 the second. You need 45 to pass, so I'm literally one question away each time and it's absolutely doing my head in. I've been in groundworks for six years so I thought I knew most of this stuff, but clearly not.

I've been reading through the revision booklet they send you but I don't think it's enough on its own. A mate mentioned using a CITB practice test online to drill the questions rather than just reading, which makes sense. Has anyone got recommendations for a decent study guide or resource that actually covers the tricky bits — confined spaces, COSHH, that sort of thing? I've got my third attempt booked for three weeks time.

Any exam tips from people who've been through this would be massively appreciated. Especially if you've failed before and turned it around.

Hannah K.

May 27, 2026

Been exactly where you are mate, failed it once before passing third attempt. The booklet alone isn't enough — you need to actually do practice questions under timed conditions. I spent about two hours a night for two weeks just hammering mock tests. The ones on environmental topics caught me out the most, things like waste disposal and contaminated land. Once I focused on those specifically my score jumped a lot. Don't give up, three weeks is plenty of time if you're consistent.

Daniel M.

May 28, 2026

The revision booklet covers everything but it's dense and easy to skim without actually retaining anything. What worked for me was going through a proper study guide that breaks it down by topic, then testing myself after each section. I found I was weak on working at height regulations specifically — there's more to it than most people assume. Also worth noting the questions are often worded to catch you out, so read them twice before answering. Good luck on your third go.

Tyler B.

May 28, 2026

Two hours a day for the last two weeks before your test should sort you out. Focus on anything environmental and health-related — that's where most people drop marks. You're only one question off passing so honestly you're nearly there already.

Failed my CITB test twice — what am I doing wrong?

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