Certification Examination Practice

Illinois Airport Security Officer Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary responsibility of an airport security officer?
• Checking passengers’ tickets
• Protecting passengers, staff, and airport facilities
• Handling baggage for passengers
• Operating air traffic control systems

Rationale: Airport security officers are responsible for ensuring the

safety and security of passengers, personnel, and airport property.

• Which federal agency sets the baseline security standards for U.S.

airports?

A. FAA 1 / 4

B. FBI

C. TSA

D. DEA

Rationale: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

establishes and enforces security measures at U.S. airports.

• What is the first step in responding to a security threat?
• Call the airport manager
• Assess the situation and ensure personal safety
• Evacuate passengers
• Detain suspects immediately

Rationale: Assessing the situation ensures the officer responds

appropriately while maintaining safety.

• Which type of identification must all airport employees display?
• Driver’s license
• Passport
• Airport-issued ID badge
• TSA PreCheck card

Rationale: Airport-issued ID badges help identify authorized

personnel and control access to secure areas.

5. Under the Airport Security Program, restricted areas are defined as:

• Areas requiring special access authorization
• Public waiting areas
• Airport parking lots 2 / 4

• Food courts

Rationale: Restricted areas are secure zones where only authorized

personnel are allowed.

• What is the standard procedure if a suspicious item is found in a

terminal?

• Move it to a safe location
• Ignore it
• Notify TSA or airport security and evacuate the area if necessary
• Open it to inspect contents

Rationale: Suspicious items are handled by trained security personnel

to prevent potential threats.

• Which method is commonly used for passenger screening?
• ID verification only
• Metal detectors and X-ray screening
• Random interviews
• Visual observation only

Rationale: Metal detectors and X-ray machines detect weapons and

prohibited items.

8. The term “sterile area” refers to:

• Airport lobby
• Parking area
• Area beyond security checkpoints where passengers board aircraft
• Baggage claim 3 / 4

Rationale: The sterile area is restricted to screened passengers and

authorized personnel only.

• How often should airport security officers complete refresher

training?

• Every 10 years
• Only at initial employment
• Annually or as required by TSA
• Every 5 years

Rationale: Regular refresher training ensures officers maintain up-to-

date knowledge of procedures and regulations.

• Which of the following is a prohibited item in carry-on luggage?
• Firearms and explosives
• Books
• Clothing
• Personal electronics

Rationale: Firearms and explosives are prohibited for passenger

safety under TSA regulations.

• What is the purpose of a perimeter security fence?
• To decorate the airport
• To direct traffic
• To prevent unauthorized access to airside areas
• To guide passengers to terminals
• / 4