Air Force Push-Up Standards 2026

Q: How many push-ups do you need to pass the Air Force PT test?

Passing push-up limits depend on age and gender. For males under 25, you need at least 33 standard push-ups (9 points). For females under 25, you need at least 18 standard push-ups (9 points) to pass the component floor.

Q: How many points are push-ups worth?

Push-ups represent the Upper Body Strength component of the PFRA, carrying a maximum value of 15 points. You must score at least 9 points (60% floor) to pass.

Q: What is the alternative to standard push-ups?

Airmen can opt to test hand-release push-ups (a 2-minute event) instead of standard push-ups (a 1-minute event) to earn their strength component points.

Q: How is the push-up score calculated?

Points are interpolated linearly between the minimum passing threshold (9 points) and the maximum threshold (15 points). Reps completed above the maximum earn a perfect 15 points.

This guide details the 2026 Air Force push-up standards under DAFMAN 36-2905 scoring tables. Scoring requirements vary dynamically based on your age and gender category. To calculate your complete score, including cardio, core, and body composition components, use our interactive tool.

Calculate your full USAF PT score

How this event fits into your 2026 Air Force PT score

Event type: Upper body strength

Scored by: Age and gender

Points: Up to 15 (15% of total)

Full score: 2026 Air Force PT Test Calculator

Table lookup: USAF PT score charts

Pass/fail rules: Air Force PT test minimums

Overview of the Upper Body Strength Component

The Upper Body Strength component is worth up to 15 points of your overall PFRA score. Airmen are assessed on either standard push-ups (1-minute timed event) or hand-release push-ups (2-minute timed event). Service members must achieve a minimum number of reps to pass, which awards 9 points (representing the 60% component floor). Achieving less than the minimum rep requirement triggers an automatic assessment failure.

Male — Standard Push-Up Standards (2026)

Age Group (DAFMAN Bracket)	Min Passing Reps (9 pts)	Max Score Reps (15 pts)
< 25 (u30)	33	67
25–29 (u30)	33	67
30–34 (30-39)	27	57
35–39 (30-39)	27	57
40–44 (40-49)	21	47
45–49 (40-49)	21	47
50–54 (50-59)	15	37
55–59 (50-59)	15	37
60+ (o60)	10	27

Values show the total completed reps required in 1 minute.

Female — Standard Push-Up Standards (2026)

Age Group (DAFMAN Bracket)	Min Passing Reps (9 pts)	Max Score Reps (15 pts)
< 25 (u30)	18	47
25–29 (u30)	18	47
30–34 (30-39)	14	41
35–39 (30-39)	14	41
40–44 (40-49)	11	35
45–49 (40-49)	11	35
50–54 (50-59)	9	29
55–59 (50-59)	9	29
60+ (o60)	6	20

Values show the total completed reps required in 1 minute.

Male — Hand-Release Push-Up Standards (2026)

Age Group (DAFMAN Bracket)	Min Passing Reps (9 pts)	Max Score Reps (15 pts)
< 25 (u30)	25	55
25–29 (u30)	25	55
30–34 (30-39)	22	49
35–39 (30-39)	22	49
40–44 (40-49)	18	41
45–49 (40-49)	18	41
50–54 (50-59)	13	33
55–59 (50-59)	13	33
60+ (o60)	8	23

Values show the total completed reps required in 2 minutes.

Female — Hand-Release Push-Up Standards (2026)

Age Group (DAFMAN Bracket)	Min Passing Reps (9 pts)	Max Score Reps (15 pts)
< 25 (u30)	12	35
25–29 (u30)	12	35
30–34 (30-39)	10	31
35–39 (30-39)	10	31
40–44 (40-49)	8	27
45–49 (40-49)	8	27
50–54 (50-59)	6	22
55–59 (50-59)	6	22
60+ (o60)	4	16

Values show the total completed reps required in 2 minutes.

How to Read the Push-Up Standards Summary

Select your Gender Category: Refer to the male or female table above.
Identify your Age Bracket: Locate the row corresponding to your age group.
Check the Rep Targets:
- Completing the Max Score Reps threshold awards the maximum 15 points.
- Completing the Min Passing Reps threshold awards the passing 9 points.
- Reps completed between min and max award prorated points using linear interpolation.
Use the Calculator: Enter your reps into our homepage calculator to instantly see your precise points.

Related USAF PT Resources

USAF PT CalculatorInstantly calculate your full score with exemptions.Air Force PT Standards 2026Overview of the full 100-point scoring guidelines.USAF PT Score ChartsInteractive tables for all components and events.Sit-Up Standards 2026View the standards for the core endurance sit-up option.How to Pass the PT Test12-week prep guides and strength building tips.Air Force PT Test MinimumsPassing score requirements by component and composite.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many push-ups do you need to pass the Air Force PT test?+