NBCE Practice Test
Updated October 2026Facts verified Oct 25, 2026 against National Board of Chiropractic Examiners
Starting a career in chiropractic means passing a big exam from the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE). This exam is key to making sure new chiropractors can give safe and effective care. We’ll cover the exam’s purpose, format, and what it tests. This guide aims to help you understand and pass this important step in your chiropractic path. Practice with the free National Board of Chiropractic Examiners practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (7 questions with answer explanations).
- NBCE Part I consists of 255 questions across six domains.[1]
- NBCE Part II consists of 255 questions across six domains.[2]
- NBCE Part III allots 4 hours of testing time within a 4 hour 31 minute appointment.[3]
- The NBCE Physiotherapy exam is allotted 75 minutes of testing time.[4]
- A passing score of at least 375 is required for NBCE Part I, reported on a 125–800 scale.[1]
- A passing score of at least 375 is required for NBCE Part II.[2]
- NBCE Part I costs $710.[5]
- NBCE Part II costs $710.[5]
- Prometric charges a $50 reschedule/cancellation fee for NBCE appointment changes made 29 to 18 days before the appointment.[1]
Numbers in brackets link to the official sources listed under Sources & last verified. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
NBCE Exam at a Glance
| Item | Detail | Source · Verified |
|---|---|---|
| Number of questions (Part I) | 255 questions, six domains[1] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Number of questions (Part II) | 255 questions, six domains[2] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Number of questions (Part IV) | 8 stations (7 patient encounter + 1 technique)[6] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Number of questions (Physiotherapy) | 90 multiple-choice questions[4] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Time limit (Part III) | 4 hours testing time (4 h 31 min appointment)[3] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Time limit (Physiotherapy) | 75 minutes[4] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Passing score (Part I) | 375 (scale 125–800)[1] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Passing score (Part II) | 375[2] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Passing score (Part III) | 375[3] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Passing score (Part IV) | 375 recommended (states set their own standard)[7] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Passing score (Physiotherapy) | 375 recommended[4] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Part I) | $710[5] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Part II) | $710[5] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Part III) | $710[3] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Part IV) | $1,585[5] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Retake fee (Parts I, II, III & Physiotherapy (CBT)) | $50 Prometric fee to reschedule/cancel 29–18 days out[1] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Retake policy | Unlimited attempts until passed; no retaking a passed exam; full Part retake only for Parts I/II since Jan 1, 2026[8] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Delivery (Part IV) | In person at the NBCE Assessment Center, Greeley, Colorado[7] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Delivery (Parts I, II, III & Physiotherapy (CBT)) | Computer-based at chiropractic colleges and Prometric test centers[1] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Part I) | Second year at an eligible chiropractic college, with registrar approval[1] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Part II) | Third year at an eligible chiropractic college[2] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Part III) | Passed Part I and within 9 months of graduation[3] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Part IV) | Passed Part I; within 6 months of graduation or a graduate[7] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Eligibility (Physiotherapy) | 120 hours of physiotherapy instruction[4] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Registration deadline (Part IV) | Scheduling closes 17 days before each test date, 4:00 p.m. MT[7] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Registration deadline (Parts I, II, III & Physiotherapy (CBT)) | Scheduling closes 17 days before test date, 4:00 p.m. MT[9] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Registration opens (Part IV) | Book up to 6 months ahead[7] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
| Testing window (Part IV) | Most weeks Fri–Sun in Greeley, CO[7] | National Board of Chiropractic Examiners · Oct 25, 2026 |
What changed for NBCE in 2026
- Oct 25, 2026: Time limit (Physiotherapy) changed to 75 minutes (previously 75 minutes (90-minute appointment)).[4]
- Oct 25, 2026: Delivery (Part IV) changed to In person at the NBCE Assessment Center, Greeley, Colorado (previously In person at NBCE Assessment Center, Greeley, Colorado).[7]
- Oct 25, 2026: Registration opens (Part IV) changed to Book up to 6 months ahead (previously Eligible 6 months before graduation; book up to 6 months ahead).[7]
- Oct 25, 2026: Retake policy changed to Unlimited attempts until passed; no retaking a passed exam; full Part retake only for Parts I/II since Jan 1, 2026 (previously Unlimited retakes until passed; full Part retake only since Jan 1, 2026; no retaking a passed exam).[8]
- Oct 25, 2026: Testing window (Part IV) changed to Most weeks Fri–Sun in Greeley, CO (previously Year-round, ~48 weeks/year, Fri–Sun in Greeley, CO).[7]
- Oct 25, 2026: Other (update 2026-04-10) changed to The redesigned NBCE Part IV exam moved to a central NBCE Assessment Center in Greeley, Colorado, with the first live exam on April 10, 2026. (previously The redesigned NBCE Part IV exam moved to a single central NBCE Assessment Center in Greeley, Colorado, with the first live exam on April 10, 2026.).[7]
- Apr 10, 2026: The redesigned NBCE Part IV exam moved to a central NBCE Assessment Center in Greeley, Colorado, with the first live exam on April 10, 2026.[7]
- Jan 1, 2026: From January 1, 2026, the NBCE no longer allows individual domain retakes on Parts I or II, so candidates who retake must sit the full Part.[10]
Free National Board of Chiropractic Examiners Study Tools
Interactive National Board of Chiropractic Examiners resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
- NBCE Neurology and Neurological Assessment 1 — 7 questions with answer explanations
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners flashcards — review key terms and concepts card by card
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners study guide — topic-by-topic overview of what the exam covers
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners cheat sheet — one-page printable summary for last-minute review
According to National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, “It consists of 255 questions across six domains.”[1]
NBCE Practice Test Questions
Prepare for the NBCE - National Board of Chiropractic Examiners exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
NBCE Certification and Licensing
NBCE Exam Questions covering Certification and Licensing. Master NBCE Test concepts for certification prep.
NBCE Chiropractic Techniques
Free NBCE Practice Test featuring Chiropractic Techniques. Improve your NBCE Exam score with mock test prep.
NBCE Diagnostic Imaging
NBCE Mock Exam on Diagnostic Imaging. NBCE Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.
NBCE Neurology and Neurological Assessment
NBCE Test Prep for Neurology and Neurological Assessment. Practice NBCE Quiz questions and boost your score.
NBCE Patient Management
NBCE Questions and Answers on Patient Management. Free NBCE practice for exam readiness.
NBCE Policies and Standards
NBCE Mock Test covering Policies and Standards. Online NBCE Test practice with instant feedback.
NBCE Research and Development
Free NBCE Quiz on Research and Development. NBCE Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.
Worked examples: how to reason through NBCE questions
These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.
Example 1
Question: What is the primary purpose of standardized procedures in Spinal Anatomy?
- To ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all practitioners
- To slow down work processes
- To create unnecessary bureaucracy
- To benefit only management
Answer: A. To ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all practitioners
Explanation:
The correct answer is that standardized procedures ensure consistency, safety and quality across all practitioners. A written, shared method means a patient receives comparable care whoever delivers it, and it makes mistakes easier to spot.
Slowing down work is wrong because a good procedure removes guesswork and rework; any delay is a side effect, not the purpose. Creating unnecessary bureaucracy is wrong because it describes a badly designed procedure, not the reason procedures exist. Benefiting only management is wrong because the main beneficiaries are patients and the practitioners who follow the procedure.
Rule to remember: when an option names a purpose, choose the one that serves patient safety and quality, and be wary of options that sound cynical or one-sided.
Example 2
Question: How does technology impact modern practices in Diagnostic Imaging?
- Technology improves efficiency, accuracy, and access to information while requiring new skills
- Technology has no impact on this field
- Technology replaces all human judgment
- Technology is only useful for record keeping
Answer: A. Technology improves efficiency, accuracy, and access to information while requiring new skills
Explanation:
The correct answer is that technology improves efficiency, accuracy and access to information while requiring new skills. It is the only option that gives both the benefit and the cost, which is how most balanced exam statements read.
Saying technology has no impact is wrong because imaging tools clearly change how findings are captured and shared. Saying it replaces all human judgment is wrong because the practitioner still interprets results and decides what to do. Saying it is only useful for record keeping is wrong because it is far too narrow; technology also affects image quality and how quickly information reaches the person who needs it.
Rule to remember: absolute words such as no, all and only are usually signs of a wrong option.
Example 3
Question: How should ethical dilemmas be handled in Spinal Anatomy?
- Follow established ethical guidelines, consult with supervisors, and prioritize stakeholder welfare
- Make decisions based solely on personal preference
- Ignore ethical concerns
- Always choose the cheapest option
Answer: A. Follow established ethical guidelines, consult with supervisors, and prioritize stakeholder welfare
Explanation:
The correct answer is to follow established ethical guidelines, consult with supervisors and prioritize the welfare of those affected. It relies on shared standards and on asking for input instead of deciding alone.
Deciding based solely on personal preference is wrong because ethics codes exist so decisions do not rest on one person's taste. Ignoring ethical concerns is wrong because an unaddressed problem can harm patients and the practitioner. Always choosing the cheapest option is wrong because cost may be a factor but it cannot override patient welfare.
Rule to remember: in ethics questions, pick the answer that uses the professional code, seeks advice when unsure, and puts the people affected first.
How to use these practice tests
Start with the official NBCE page for the part you are sitting. Note its eligibility rules, format and scoring so you know what you are preparing for. Then use the practice sets to find where you are weak.
Work through the topic sets, such as Spinal Anatomy, Diagnostic Imaging, Chiropractic Techniques, Patient Management and Neurology, in short sittings. After each set, read the explanation for every question you missed, and also for those you guessed correctly. Write down the rule behind each miss in your own words and revisit that list at the start of your next session.
Our questions are written by us and are not real exam questions, so treat them as a way to practise recall and reasoning, not as a preview of what you will see. Use the Certification and Licensing and Types of Exams sets to check you understand the process around the exam as well as the content.
Close to test day, shift from learning new material to reviewing your list of missed rules. Confirm your scheduling, location and identification requirements on mynbce.org, and plan your route and timing so the day itself is uneventful.
Key Takeaways
FREE NBCE Practice Test Online
- The NBCE exam is a nationally recognized assessment that evaluates the competence of chiropractic practitioners.
- Passing the NBCE exam is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a chiropractic license in the United States.
- The exam covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, diagnosis, and chiropractic techniques.
- Effective study strategies and the utilization of practice resources can significantly improve your chances of success on the NBCE exam.
- The NBCE exam is a critical milestone in the chiropractic career path, opening doors to various professional opportunities.
Understanding the (NBCE) National Board of Chiropractic Examiners Test
The chiropractic board certification process in the United States centers on the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) test. This test is key in checking if a chiropractor has the knowledge and skills needed for starting a chiropractic practice. It’s a big step for those wanting to get their chiropractic licensure and start their career.
| What is the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE)? | NBCE creates standardized exams used by many jurisdictions to evaluate chiropractic licensure readiness. |
| Who should take NBCE exams? | Chiropractic students and graduates typically test as part of their path toward licensure. |
| What do NBCE-style questions measure? | They focus on applied knowledge, clinical reasoning, and safe patient-care decision making. |
| How are NBCE scores used for licensure? | State or provincial boards review passed sections based on local rules for licensure or endorsement. |
| What does NBCE Part I generally cover? | It emphasizes foundational sciences that support clinical decision making. |
| What is the main focus of NBCE Part II? | It centers on clinical science concepts used in patient evaluation and management. |
| What is tested in NBCE Part III-style content? | It tends to be more case-based, requiring practical clinical judgment. |
| What does the NBCE Physiotherapy exam assess? | It commonly covers therapeutic procedures and physical agents used in chiropractic settings. |
| How should you structure a weekly NBCE study schedule? | Use short daily review blocks, then add timed mixed-question sets to build stamina. |
| What is the best way to review missed NBCE questions? | Write a one-sentence rule for the concept, then redo a small set on the same topic. |
| How can you improve pacing during the exam? | Practice timed blocks and avoid spending too long on any single question early. |
| What should you do the day before the test? | Review high-yield notes and common error patterns, not brand-new material. |
| What affects a chiropractor’s salary the most? | Location, patient volume, payer mix, and clinic efficiency often drive earnings. |
| Do chiropractors earn more in private practice? | Owners can earn more, but income depends on overhead, retention, and referrals. |
| How does experience change earning potential? | Income often improves as a clinician builds a stable caseload and systems for growth. |
| Can niche services increase chiropractic income? | Yes, specialization can help when there is strong demand and clear service positioning. |
| How much does the NBCE exam cost? | Fees vary by exam section and can change, so confirm the price during registration. |
| Are there extra fees beyond registration? | You may see added costs for rescheduling, late changes, or special processing. |
| What should you budget for total testing costs? | Plan for multiple sections plus any required score reporting or administrative steps. |
| Can NBCE fees change over time? | Yes, pricing may be updated, so always verify current fees before scheduling. |
Exam Format and Content Areas
The NBCE exam has several parts, each covering different chiropractic topics. It includes basic sciences, clinical sciences, and practical/skills-based assessments. Candidates need to show they know these areas well to pass the exam and meet chiropractic regulatory bodies‘ standards for chiropractic credentialing and chiropractic professional development.
Passing the NBCE exam is a big step for chiropractic career advancement. Knowing what the exam covers helps aspiring chiropractors prepare better. This can open the door to their chiropractic practice dreams.
Effective Study Strategies
Preparing for the NBCE Exam
Success on the NBCE exam needs a good plan and the right tools. As future chiropractors, making a solid study plan and using the best resources can boost your exam passing chances.
Here are some tips to help you do well:
- Time management: Make a study schedule that covers all topics and includes breaks. This helps you stay focused and refreshed.
- Active learning techniques: Use active learning, like making practice questions, explaining concepts out loud, and joining study groups. This helps you understand better.
- Targeted practice: Use practice tests and questions that are similar to the real NBCE exam. This helps you find and work on your weak spots.
Practice Tests and Resources
Using different NBCE exam prep tools can make you more ready for the test. These tools include:
- Comprehensive study guides: Spend money on study guides that offer detailed reviews, practice questions, and tips for the NBCE exam.
- Online practice exams: Try online practice tests that mimic the real exam. They give you feedback on your performance and what you need to work on.
- Chiropractic board review courses: Think about joining a chiropractic board review course. These courses have structured reviews, practice exams, and help from experienced teachers.
By using good study strategies and the right resources, you can feel ready for the NBCE exam. This is a big step towards your chiropractic career.
- +Industry-recognized credential boosts your resume
- +Higher earning potential (10-20% salary increase on average)
- +Demonstrates commitment to professional development
- +Opens doors to advanced career opportunities
- −Exam preparation requires significant time investment (4-8 weeks)
- −Certification fees can be $100-$400+
- −May require continuing education to maintain
- −Some employers may not require certification
Sample National Board of Chiropractic Examiners Practice Questions
Try these questions from our free National Board of Chiropractic Examiners practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
Which NBCE body is responsible for setting examination content specifications and blueprints?
- A. Council on Chiropractic Education
- B. NBCE Board of Directors
- C. Test Development Committee
- D. State licensing boards
Answer: C. Test Development Committee
The NBCE Test Development Committee, composed of subject-matter experts, develops and reviews content specifications for each exam part.
A candidate caught using unauthorized notes during an NBCE exam faces which consequence under exam security policy?
- A. A 5-point score deduction per infraction
- B. Score cancellation and possible permanent disqualification
- C. Mandatory re-examination at next available sitting
- D. A written warning on first offense only
Answer: B. Score cancellation and possible permanent disqualification
Confirmed cheating results in score cancellation, and the NBCE may impose permanent disqualification from future examinations.
In Part IV of the NBCE exams, which of the following scenarios might a candidate be asked to address?
- A. Developing a business plan for a chiropractic clinic
- B. Performing a spinal adjustment on a patient
- C. Evaluating and managing a complex clinical case
- D. Designing a chiropractic research study
Answer: C. Evaluating and managing a complex clinical case
Part IV of the NBCE exams focuses on a candidate's ability to integrate knowledge and skills in a comprehensive clinical setting. This often involves evaluating and managing complex patient cases, requiring candidates to demonstrate diagnostic reasoning, treatment planning, and patient management strategies. It assesses their readiness to handle real-world clinical challenges independently.
NBCE's testing accommodations policy is designed to comply with which federal law?
- A. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
- B. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- C. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
- D. Rehabilitation Act Section 504 only
Answer: B. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
NBCE accommodation policies are designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring equal access for candidates with documented disabilities.
Take the full National Board of Chiropractic Examiners practice test
NBCE Questions and Answers
Sources & last verified
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — number of questions, passing score, retake fee, delivery (official source). “It consists of 255 questions across six domains.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — number of questions, passing score, eligibility (official source). “It consists of 255 questions across six domains.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — time limit, passing score, exam fee, eligibility (official source). “You are allotted 4 hours of testing time for the Part III.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — time limit, number of questions, passing score, eligibility (official source). “The Physiotherapy Examination is allotted 75 minutes of testing time.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — exam fee (official source). “Part I: $710” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — number of questions (official source). “Examinees will rotate through seven Patient Encounter Stations and one Technique Station for a total of EIGHT STATIONS.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — passing score, delivery, eligibility, registration deadline (official source). “The NBCE recommends a passing score of 375 or above on the Part IV Exam.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — retake policy (official source). “Once you have passed Part I, you may not retake these exams without special requirement of a state licensing authority.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — registration deadline (official source). “Scheduling closes 17 days before each test date at 4:00 p.m. Mountain Time.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
- National Board of Chiropractic Examiners — other (official source). “Effective January 1, 2026, the NBCE will no longer allow candidates to retake individual domains within Parts I or II.” Verified Oct 25, 2026.
How we verify: editorial & fact-checking policy. Report an error: contact us.
How this page was made: written with AI tools and published by Nathan Beja, founder of Practice Test Geeks, who is responsible for its content. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy
Sources & references
Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy
- mynbce.org — Test delivery, eligibility, passing score, registration deadline, registration, test dates, exam format, time limit, fees, retake policy · verified Oct 2026