The USPS replaced the 473 Postal Exam with the Virtual Entry Assessment (VEA) series in 2026. The new exams include 474 for city carriers and mail processing clerks, 475 for mail handlers, 476 for mail processing clerks, and 477 for customer service clerks. Each assessment is tailored to the specific position you are applying for rather than using a single general exam.

The VEA assessments typically contain between 150 and 200 questions depending on the specific exam number. The test is not timed with a strict per-question limit, but most candidates complete it within 90 minutes. Questions are divided into sections covering work scenarios, personality traits, and job-related experiences rather than the old memory and address-checking format.

You need a minimum score of 70 out of 100 to pass any of the VEA postal exams. However, scoring 70 only places you on the eligibility register. Competitive candidates typically score 80 or above. Scores of 90 and higher significantly increase your chances of being called for an interview, as hiring managers select from the top-scoring applicants in their district.

The VEA exams assess four main areas: Tell Us Your Story (biographical data and work history), Describe Your Approach (personality and work style questions), Work Scenarios (situational judgment about handling workplace situations), and Check Yourself (job preview questions about physical demands and working conditions). There is no longer an address-checking or memory section as found on the old 473.

You must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have a valid driver license for carrier positions. A high school diploma or GED is required for most roles. Males born after December 31, 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service. You must also pass a drug screening, background check, and medical assessment after receiving a conditional job offer.

You cannot register for the exam independently. The VEA is offered only when you apply for a specific USPS job posting on usps.com/careers. After submitting your application for an open position, you receive an email invitation with a link to take the assessment online from home. The assessment link is typically valid for 72 hours from the time it is sent.

If you fail a VEA assessment, you must wait 12 months before retaking that specific exam number. However, if you pass but want a higher score, your original passing score remains locked for 12 months as well. You can take different VEA exam numbers during that waiting period, so applying for a different position type gives you another testing opportunity sooner.

Focus on practicing situational judgment questions since they make up the largest scored section of the VEA. Review common workplace scenarios involving customer conflicts, time management, and teamwork decisions. Take timed practice tests to build comfort with the question format. Study the specific job description for the position you are applying to, as Tell Us Your Story questions are scored against the traits that role requires.