What Is the Passing Score for the DANB ICE Exam?
What Is the Passing Score for the DANB ICE Exam?
The Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Infection Control (ICE) exam is one of the most widely recognized exams for dental assistants in the United States. It measures essential knowledge in areas such as infection prevention, sterilization, and occupational safety, ensuring that dental assistants can provide safe and effective care.
A common question among candidates is: What score do I need to pass the DANB ICE exam?
The Passing Score
To pass the DANB ICE exam, candidates must achieve a scaled score of 400. DANB uses a scoring system that ranges from 100 to 900, with 400 set as the minimum passing point.
This scoring method does not represent a direct percentage of correct answers. Instead, DANB uses a scaled scoring model that adjusts for the relative difficulty of each exam form. For example, answering 70% of questions correctly on a harder test may result in the same scaled score as answering 75% correctly on an easier version.
Why Scaled Scoring Matters
Scaled scoring ensures fairness for all test takers. Because DANB uses multiple versions of the ICE exam, some sets of questions may be slightly more difficult than others. By converting raw scores into a standardized scale, DANB guarantees that the passing standard is consistent across all exam versions.
Preparing for the ICE Exam
Since the passing score is based on scaled scoring, candidates should focus less on aiming for a specific percentage and more on mastering the exam content areas:
Standard precautions and infection prevention
Instrument processing and sterilization methods
Occupational safety regulations and hazard communication
Waste management and compliance with OSHA standards
Strong preparation, including practice tests and review courses, increases the likelihood of not only passing but also performing confidently in real clinical settings.
Conclusion
The passing score for the DANB ICE exam is a scaled score of 400 on a 100–900 scale. This scoring system ensures consistency and fairness across all test versions. Candidates preparing for the exam should focus on comprehensive study and practice to meet and exceed this standard, paving the way toward certification and expanded career opportunities in dental assisting.
Also, if you're searching for more than just a job, moreover, a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential; then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Furthermore, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
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