Free Holland Code Career Test - Discover Your Career Personality
Take our scientifically validated Holland Code career test to discover your work personality type based on Dr. John Holland's RIASEC theory. This test will help you identify your dominant personality types (Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, Conventional) and find careers that match your personality.
Select your gender to begin:
Your Holland Code Results
Realistic (R):
Investigative (I):
Artistic (A):
Social (S):
Enterprising (E):
Conventional (C):
Understanding the Holland Code (RIASEC)
The Holland Code is a theory developed by psychologist Dr. John Holland that identifies six basic personality types that describe how people interact with their work environment. Understanding your Holland Code can help you find careers that match your personality and work preferences.
What Do the Six Holland Codes Mean?
Each Holland Code represents a different work personality type:
- Realistic (R): Practical, physical, hands-on, tool-oriented
- Investigative (I): Analytical, intellectual, scientific, explorative
- Artistic (A): Creative, original, independent, chaotic
- Social (S): Cooperative, supporting, helping, healing/nurturing
- Enterprising (E): Competitive environments, leadership, persuading
- Conventional (C): Detail-oriented, organizing, clerical
The Holland Codes Explained
| Holland Code | Personality Traits | Work Environment Preferences | Sample Careers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Realistic (R) | Practical, mechanical, athletic, stable | Work with hands, machines, tools, outdoors | Engineer, mechanic, farmer, military |
| Investigative (I) | Analytical, intellectual, curious, precise | Research, problem-solving, intellectual challenges | Scientist, programmer, doctor, mathematician |
| Artistic (A) | Creative, expressive, original, intuitive | Unstructured, creative, flexible environments | Artist, writer, musician, designer |
| Social (S) | Helpful, empathetic, patient, cooperative | Helping others, teamwork, communication | Teacher, nurse, counselor, therapist |
| Enterprising (E) | Persuasive, energetic, ambitious, sociable | Leadership, influencing others, achieving goals | Salesperson, entrepreneur, lawyer, manager |
| Conventional (C) | Organized, detail-oriented, efficient, practical | Structured, orderly, systematic work | Accountant, secretary, banker, administrator |
How Accurate Is This Test?
Our Holland Code test follows the methodology of Dr. John Holland's original RIASEC assessment. For accurate results, answer honestly based on your natural preferences, not what you think you should prefer.
Applications of Holland Codes
Understanding your Holland Code can help in many areas:
- Career Selection: Choose careers that match your personality
- Career Change: Identify new career paths that fit you
- Education Planning: Select college majors that align with your interests
- Job Satisfaction: Understand why certain jobs make you happy/unhappy
- Team Building: Create balanced teams with complementary types
FAQ: Holland Code Test
Can I have more than one dominant Holland Code?
Most people have 2-3 dominant codes that make up their "Holland Code" (like RIA or SEC). These combinations can provide more specific career guidance.
Can Holland Codes change over time?
While your core interests tend to remain stable, your secondary codes may shift with life experiences and career exposure.
What if my current job doesn't match my Holland Code?
You might experience job dissatisfaction. Consider how to incorporate more of your interests into your work or explore career changes.
How long does the test take?
Our version takes about 5-10 minutes to complete.
Is one Holland Code better than others?
No code is superior. Each represents valid personality types that excel in different careers.
Can I retake the test?
Yes, especially if you feel your interests have changed or you want to verify your results.
Common Uses of Holland Codes
- Career counseling and guidance
- College major selection
- Military career placement
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Job recruitment and placement
- Personal development and self-awareness