Passive Perception 5E Calculator

The Passive Perception 5E Calculator estimates your character's automatic detection score based on Wisdom, proficiency, and special bonuses. This tool helps players and Dungeon Masters determine exactly what a character notices without rolling dice. Whether you are optimizing a high-level scout, setting trap difficulty classes, or checking the impact of the Observant feat, this calculator provides instant accuracy.

Enter your character's Wisdom modifier (e.g., +2, -1, +4)
Enter your character's proficiency bonus (usually +2 to +6 based on level)
Any other bonuses to Perception (from feats, magic items, etc.)
Check if your character is proficient in the Perception skill
Select any conditions affecting perception
Check if your character has the Observant feat (+5 to passive Perception)

How Passive Perception Score Is Calculated

10 + Wisdom Modifier + (Proficiency Bonus if proficient) + Additional Bonuses + (+5 if Observant Feat) + Condition Modifiers

Where:

  • Base (10) = Represents taking 10 on a d20 roll
  • Wisdom Modifier = Your character's natural awareness
  • Proficiency Bonus = Training in the Perception skill
  • Additional Bonuses = Feats, magic items, or racial traits

Passive Perception represents the minimum result you would get if you actively tried to notice something. It simplifies gameplay by eliminating the need to roll dice for every single detail in a room. By adding your ability modifiers and bonuses to a base of 10, you create a static threshold. This allows your Dungeon Master to quickly determine if you spot a hidden trap or sneaking enemy without slowing down the game speed.

What Your Passive Perception Score Means

This number acts as a constant awareness level for your character. It tells your Dungeon Master exactly what you notice automatically, saving time at the table.

Scouting and Stealth

High-Level Characters (15+): If your score is 15 or higher, you are an excellent scout. You will likely notice hidden traps and secret doors with low to moderate DCs without actively searching. Frontline Fighters (10-14): An average score means you see obvious threats but might miss clever ambushes.

For Dungeon Masters

Use this score to set the difficulty of hidden objects. If the party’s rogue has a passive score of 18, a trap with a DC of 15 is found instantly. To challenge such a character, you must set DCs of 20 or higher.

Important: Be aware that conditions like Blinded impose a -5 penalty, drastically lowering your effective score.

This calculator is designed for use with Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition. The results are based on official rules but may be subject to your Dungeon Master's house rules. Always check with your DM before using these results in gameplay. Update your score whenever you gain a level or equip a magic item to keep your character sheet accurate.

Calculation logic verified using publicly available standards.

View our Accuracy & Reliability Framework →