What is the passing score for the PHTLS exam?

The PHTLS written exam requires a minimum score of 70% to pass. The exam is administered as a closed-book, multiple-choice test at the end of the PHTLS course. Students who do not pass on the first attempt are typically given one opportunity to retake the exam during the same course offering, though policies may vary by training center.

What is the format of the PHTLS exam?

The PHTLS exam consists of a written multiple-choice test combined with practical skills stations. The written portion includes scenario-based questions that assess clinical decision-making in prehospital trauma situations. Practical stations evaluate hands-on skills such as spinal motion restriction, hemorrhage control, and rapid trauma assessment. Both components must be completed successfully to earn certification.

Who is eligible to take the PHTLS course and exam?

PHTLS is open to EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physicians, and other licensed or certified prehospital care providers. Military medics and combat lifesavers also frequently attend. There is no prerequisite certification beyond holding a current healthcare or EMS credential. Some training centers also offer PHTLS to medical students and other allied health professionals involved in emergency care.

How do I register for a PHTLS course?

Registration for PHTLS courses is handled through local training centers authorized by the National Association of EMTs. Visit the NAEMT website at naemt.org to search for upcoming course offerings by location and date. Course fees typically range from $200 to $400 depending on the provider and region. Registration usually includes the PHTLS textbook and course materials.

How long is the PHTLS course?

The standard PHTLS provider course runs 16 hours over two days. Day one typically covers didactic content including pathophysiology of trauma, airway management, and shock assessment. Day two focuses on practical skills stations and scenario-based testing. A condensed refresher course for recertification is available as an 8-hour, single-day program for providers with current or recently expired PHTLS certification.

Is the PHTLS textbook required for the exam?

Yes, the PHTLS textbook is the primary study resource and is considered essential for exam preparation. The current edition covers all tested content areas including kinematics of trauma, hemorrhage control, and patient assessment algorithms. Most course registrations include the textbook in the fee. The book uses case-based scenarios that mirror the style of questions found on the written exam.

What is the difference between PHTLS and ITLS?

PHTLS and ITLS (International Trauma Life Support) are both prehospital trauma education programs with similar goals but different organizations and approaches. PHTLS is administered by NAEMT in cooperation with the American College of Surgeons, while ITLS operates independently. PHTLS emphasizes the XABCDE assessment framework, whereas ITLS uses a slightly different assessment sequence. Both certifications are widely recognized by EMS agencies.

Can PHTLS certification help advance my EMS career?

PHTLS certification is highly valued across the EMS profession and is required or preferred by many fire departments, ambulance services, and air medical programs. It demonstrates advanced trauma assessment competency beyond standard EMT or paramedic training. Many tactical EMS teams and critical care transport services list PHTLS as a hiring requirement. The certification also strengthens applications for flight paramedic and supervisory positions.

PHTLS Practice Test

Updated for August 2026

Dr. Sarah MitchellAug 1, 202612 min read

⏱️16 HoursCourse Length

📝50Questions

✅76%Pass Score

💵$250Avg. Cost

The PHTLS meaning goes beyond a simple acronym; it represents a commitment to excellence in trauma care. The Prehospital Trauma Life Support course integrates the latest evidence-based medical knowledge, including the XABCDE assessment approach, to improve patient outcomes in emergency situations.

Master the PHTLS Test 2026: Your Ultimate Guide to Prehospital Trauma Life Support - PHTLS preparation guide

PHTLS Practice Test Questions

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PHTLS 7th Edition Questions and Answers

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PHTLS Flashcards

Key concepts for the Prehospital Trauma Life Support Course

🌬️What is the preferred method for opening the airway in a trauma patient?

The jaw-thrust maneuver is preferred to protect the cervical spine while opening the airway.

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🩸What is the first step in controlling life-threatening hemorrhage?

Apply direct pressure or a tourniquet immediately if direct pressure is insufficient or impractical.

REVIEW PHTLS QUESTIONS

🧠What GCS score indicates severe traumatic brain injury?

A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 8 or less indicates severe traumatic brain injury.

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🦴What is the primary goal of spinal motion restriction?

To prevent further injury to the spinal cord by minimizing movement of the spinal column.

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💓What are the classic signs of tension pneumothorax?

Distended neck veins, tracheal deviation, absent breath sounds, and hypotension (shock).

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💉What is the target systolic blood pressure for permissive hypotension?

Typically 80-90 mmHg, enough to maintain perfusion without dislodging clots (unless TBI is present).

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PHTLS EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

PHTLS Exam Study Guide

Our PHTLS study guide breaks down the NAEMT PHTLS course into manageable sections. Review these common questions to understand the PHTLS certification process and exam expectations.

What is the PHTLS certification?	PHTLS certification validates an EMS provider's ability to assess and manage trauma patients. It emphasizes the "treat as you go" philosophy and critical thinking.
Who needs to take the PHTLS course?	The NAEMT PHTLS course is designed for EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physician assistants, and physicians involved in prehospital trauma care.
Does PHTLS provide CE credits?	Yes, completing the PHTLS class typically awards 16 hours of CAPCE-accredited continuing education credits for EMS license renewal.
What is the difference between ITLS and PHTLS?	While both ITLS PHTLS cover trauma, PHTLS focuses more on critical thinking and physiology, whereas ITLS is often more algorithm-driven.

What is the PHTLS certification?

PHTLS certification validates an EMS provider's ability to assess and manage trauma patients. It emphasizes the "treat as you go" philosophy and critical thinking.

Who needs to take the PHTLS course?

The NAEMT PHTLS course is designed for EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physician assistants, and physicians involved in prehospital trauma care.

Does PHTLS provide CE credits?

Yes, completing the PHTLS class typically awards 16 hours of CAPCE-accredited continuing education credits for EMS license renewal.

What is the difference between ITLS and PHTLS?

While both ITLS PHTLS cover trauma, PHTLS focuses more on critical thinking and physiology, whereas ITLS is often more algorithm-driven.

START PHTLS REVIEWER QUIZ

PHTLS 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

Expect to invest between $300 and $400 total for your PHTLS certification, including the PHTLS course fee and textbook. Employers often reimburse these costs.

PHTLS CERTIFICATION PRACTICE TEST

PHTLS TEST QUESTIONS

PHTLS Test Day Checklist

✓PHTLS Textbook
✓Notebook & Pen
✓Comfortable Clothes
✓Stethoscope
✓Photo ID
✓Lunch/Snacks
✓Pre-Test Score
✓Positive Attitude

📄Free PHTLS Practice Test PDF

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PHTLS Renewal Requirements

📅

Validity

4 Years

📝

CE Credits

16 Hours

To renew, you can take a 1-day PHTLS refresher course or the 8-hour PHTLS for First Responders course, depending on your level of licensure.

✅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

PHTLS Questions and Answers

About the Author

Dr. Sarah MitchellRN, MSN, PhD

Registered Nurse & Healthcare Educator

Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing

Dr. Sarah Mitchell is a board-certified registered nurse with over 15 years of clinical and academic experience. She completed her PhD in Nursing Science at Johns Hopkins University and has taught NCLEX preparation and clinical skills courses for nursing students across the United States. Her research focuses on evidence-based exam preparation strategies for healthcare certification candidates.