What is the OTC (Orthopaedic Technologist Certified) exam?

The OTC exam is a certification test administered by the National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists (NBCOT) for orthopaedic technologists working under orthopaedic surgeons. It validates knowledge of casting, splinting, traction, and patient care in orthopaedic settings. Passing earns the Orthopaedic Technologist Certified credential.

What is the format of the OTC certification exam?

The OTC exam is a computer-based multiple-choice test delivered at PSI testing centers across the United States. Candidates have three hours to complete it, and each question offers four answer choices with only one correct response. The exam is closed-book with no outside reference materials allowed.

How many questions are on the OTC exam?

The OTC exam contains 200 multiple-choice questions, with 175 scored items and 25 unscored pretest questions used for future exam development. Candidates do not know which questions are unscored. The pretest items are distributed randomly throughout the exam to maintain consistent testing conditions.

What is the passing score for the OTC exam?

The NBCOT uses a scaled scoring system where candidates need a minimum scaled score of 450 out of 600 to pass the OTC exam. The raw number of correct answers required varies slightly between test forms due to equating adjustments. Results are provided immediately after completing the test.

What topics does the OTC exam cover?

The OTC exam covers cast application and removal, splinting, traction setup, orthopaedic surgical assisting, patient assessment, infection control, and durable medical equipment fitting. It also tests anatomy, fracture classification, wound care, and emergency response. Roughly 40 percent focuses on casting and immobilization techniques.

Who is eligible to take the OTC exam?

Candidates must meet one of several pathways: graduation from an accredited orthopaedic technology program, completion of a military orthopaedic training program, or at least two years of full-time orthopaedic technologist work experience verified by a supervising orthopaedic surgeon. All applicants need a high school diploma or GED.

How do I register for the OTC exam?

Registration is completed through the NBCOT website at nbcot.net by submitting an application, eligibility documentation, and the examination fee of approximately $375. Once approved, candidates receive an Authorization to Test letter and schedule their exam at a PSI testing center within a 90-day window.

What are the best study tips for passing the OTC exam?

Focus on hands-on practice with casting materials and traction equipment, since practical application questions dominate the test. Review the NBCOT candidate handbook, study Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics fundamentals, and take timed practice tests to build pacing. Joining a study group with working orthopaedic technologists helps reinforce clinical scenarios.

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Free Orthopaedic Technologist Certified practice test with questions and answer explanations. Prepare for the 2026 June exam with instant scoring.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test By Dr. Alexandra KimJun 3, 202654 min read

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test 2026 June

⏱️3 HoursTime Limit

📝165Questions

✅73%Passing Score

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The OTC exam is administered by the National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists (NBCOT). It assesses competence in casting, splinting, traction, surgery assisting, and patient assessment.

Otc Exam - Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test study guide

OTC Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certification

OTC Exam Questions covering Orthopaedic Technologist Certification. Master OTC Test concepts for certification prep.

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist

Free OTC Practice Test featuring Orthopaedic Technologist. Improve your OTC Exam score with mock test prep.

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Cas...

OTC Mock Exam on Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Cast Complications and Removal. OTC Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Inf...

OTC Test Prep for Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Infection Control and Safety. Practice OTC Quiz questions and boost your score.

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OTC Questions and Answers on Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Lower Extremity Splinting. Free OTC practice for exam readiness.

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OTC Mock Test covering Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Orthopaedic Appliances and Bracing. Online OTC Test practice with instant feedback.

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OTC Study Material on Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Fracture Classification and Management. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.

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OTC Exam Flashcards

Quick review for Orthopaedic Technologist concepts

🦵What is Valgus deformity?

A condition where the bone segment distal to a joint is angled outward, away from the body's midline (e.g., knock-knees).

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🩹Purpose of a Sugar Tong Splint?

Used to immobilize the wrist and forearm, preventing supination and pronation, often for distal radius fractures.

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🧬What is Arthroplasty?

A surgical procedure to restore the function of a joint, which can involve resurfacing the bones or using an artificial joint.

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🦶What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Inflammation of a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, causing heel pain.

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OTC EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

OTC Exam Study Guide

Our OTC study guide breaks down the NBCOT certification into key knowledge domains. Whether you are new to the field or an experienced orthopaedic surgeon assistant, these topics are essential.

What is the OTC exam?	The OTC exam is the national certification test for Orthopaedic Technologists, verifying skills in casting, splinting, and assisting in orthopaedic surgery.
Who administers the OTC test?	The exam is administered by the National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists (NBCOT).
Do I need to be an orthopaedic surgeon?	No, the OTC is for technologists. An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical doctor, while an OTC assists them.
What is the difference between orthopaedic vs orthopedic?	They are the same; "orthopaedic" is the traditional/British spelling often used by academic institutions like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, while "orthopedic" is the Americanized version.

What is the OTC exam?

The OTC exam is the national certification test for Orthopaedic Technologists, verifying skills in casting, splinting, and assisting in orthopaedic surgery.

Who administers the OTC test?

The exam is administered by the National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Technologists (NBCOT).

Do I need to be an orthopaedic surgeon?

No, the OTC is for technologists. An orthopaedic surgeon is a medical doctor, while an OTC assists them.

What is the difference between orthopaedic vs orthopedic?

They are the same; "orthopaedic" is the traditional/British spelling often used by academic institutions like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, while "orthopedic" is the Americanized version.

START ORTHOPAEDIC INSTRUMENTS QUIZ

OTC Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

The total cost for the OTC credential ranges from $600 to $16,000 depending on whether you choose a college program or on-the-job training (OJT) route.

Orthopaedic Instruments - Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test study guide

FREE OTC PRACTICE TEST

OTC Test Day Checklist

✓Valid Government ID
✓Exam Confirmation Email
✓Arrive 30 Mins Early
✓Leave Electronics in Car
✓Comfortable Clothing
✓Review Splinting Codes
✓Relax and Rest
✓Hydrate (Lightly)

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Ready to Pass the OTC Exam?

Get started with our free practice questions and comprehensive study guide today.

OTC Renewal Requirements

📅

Validity

6 Years

🎓

Requirements

60 CEUs

💵

Cost

$250

Ensure your CEUs are relevant to orthopaedic surgery, casting, or patient care. Attending the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) annual meeting is a great way to earn credits.

✅Pros

+Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
+Increases job market competitiveness
+Provides structured learning goals
+Networking opportunities with other certified professionals

❌Cons

−Study materials can be expensive
−Exam anxiety can affect performance
−Requires dedicated preparation time
−Retake fees apply if you don't pass

OTC Questions and Answers

About the Author

Dr. Alexandra KimPhD Professional Studies, CPLP, CPTD

Certified Professional Development Expert & Niche Certification Advisor

University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education

Dr. Alexandra Kim holds a PhD in Professional Studies from the University of Pennsylvania and is a Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) and Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD). With 17 years of corporate training and professional certification advisory experience, she helps professionals navigate specialized, emerging, and cross-industry certification programs.