Can You Have Double Proficiency in 5E? The Definitive Guide
No, you cannot have double proficiency in a skill, saving throw, or any other area in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (5E). While the idea of stacking bonuses might seem appealing, the rules of 5E are designed to prevent this. You only apply your proficiency bonus once to any roll, ability check, or calculation where it’s applicable. There’s no way to gain a bonus that doubles your proficiency unless specifically granted by a feature like Expertise. Let’s delve deeper into how proficiency works and address some common misconceptions.
Understanding Proficiency in 5E
What is Proficiency?
In 5E, proficiency represents your character’s aptitude and training in specific areas. This is reflected by your proficiency bonus, a numerical value added to certain rolls. At level 1, your proficiency bonus starts at +2 and increases as you level up. This bonus applies to:
- Skill checks: When using skills you’re proficient in (e.g., Stealth, Athletics).
- Saving throws: When making saving throws you’re proficient in (determined by your class).
- Attack rolls: When using weapons or spells you’re proficient with.
- Tool checks: When using tools you’re proficient with (e.g., thieves’ tools, smith’s tools).
Why No Stacking?
The design philosophy of 5E emphasizes simplicity and avoids the complex bonus stacking found in some earlier editions. This makes the game more streamlined and easier to manage. The core principle is that you only apply your proficiency bonus once. Features that might seem to grant a second proficiency instead offer alternatives, such as learning a new skill.
The Exception: Expertise
While you can’t double your proficiency outright, the Expertise feature is a notable exception. Some classes, most notably Rogues and Bards, gain Expertise at certain levels. Expertise allows you to double your proficiency bonus for specific skills you’re already proficient in. This is the only legitimate way to effectively gain “double proficiency” within the rules of 5E. This distinction is crucial: Expertise doesn’t grant a second proficiency; it enhances an existing one.
Multiclassing and Proficiencies
When you multiclass, you gain some of the proficiencies from your new class, but not all of them. For instance, you don’t gain new saving throw proficiencies when multiclassing. If you would gain the same proficiency from two different sources (e.g., from your class and your background), you can choose a different proficiency of the same type instead. You don’t get to double up the proficiency bonus.
FAQs: Proficiency in 5E
1. Do proficiencies stack in 5E?
No, proficiencies do not stack in 5E. You only apply your proficiency bonus once to any roll where it’s applicable.
2. Can you add proficiency bonus twice?
According to the official rules, you cannot add your proficiency bonus to a single roll twice. The only exception to this rule is the Expertise feature.
3. Do two proficiencies stack?
No, gaining proficiency from two sources doesn’t double your proficiency bonus. If you gain the same proficiency from two different sources, you choose another proficiency of the same kind.
4. Can you get triple proficiency 5E?
There is no way to gain triple proficiency in 5E. The Expertise feature allows you to double your proficiency bonus, but there’s no official mechanic to triple it.
5. What is the max proficiency bonus in D&D?
The maximum proficiency bonus in D&D is +6. This is achieved at level 17 and remains the same until level 20.
6. Can you have triple proficiency?
While you can’t triple your proficiency bonus, the term “triple proficiency” is not mechanically supported in 5E. You might achieve a similar effect through a combination of bonuses and advantage, but it’s not a standard rule.
7. Can you stack proficiency and expertise?
No. Expertise doubles the proficiency bonus, but you cannot stack multiple instances of Expertise or any other features that might modify your proficiency bonus.
8. Do you get both proficiencies when Multiclassing?
When multiclassing, you only get some of the proficiencies from your second class. You never gain saving throw proficiencies, and some classes don’t grant weapon proficiencies.
9. What is a +2 proficiency bonus?
A +2 proficiency bonus is the starting bonus for all level 1 characters in 5E. It applies to skills, saving throws, attacks, and tool checks you’re proficient in.
10. How do you get proficiency bonus in 5e?
Your proficiency bonus is determined by your character level. It starts at +2 at level 1 and increases to +3 at level 5, +4 at level 9, +5 at level 13, and +6 at level 17.
11. Does D&D beyond automatically add proficiency bonus?
Yes, D&D Beyond automatically calculates and adds your proficiency bonus where it applies in your character sheet.
12. Can you gain proficiency in saving throws 5e?
Each class grants proficiency in at least two saving throws. You add your proficiency bonus to saving throws you’re proficient in.
13. What does the proficiency bonus do in 5e?
The proficiency bonus is added to skill checks, saving throws, attack rolls, and tool checks for things you’re proficient in, increasing your likelihood of success.
14. How does proficiency work with multiclassing 5e?
When multiclassing, your proficiency bonus is based on your total character level, not your level in any specific class. You gain some proficiencies from your new class, but not all.
15. What happens if you have proficiency from two sources?
If you would gain the same proficiency from two different sources, you choose another proficiency of the same kind instead. You don’t gain any additional benefits for having multiple sources.
Expanding Your Skills: Beyond Proficiency
While you can’t double your proficiency bonus (except through Expertise), there are still many ways to improve your character’s abilities and skills. Consider these options:
- Feats: Some feats grant additional skill proficiencies, allowing you to become more versatile.
- Magic Items: Certain magic items can grant bonuses to specific skills or abilities.
- Roleplaying: Clever roleplaying and creative solutions can often overcome a lack of proficiency.
- Teamwork: Collaborate with your party members to leverage each other’s strengths.
The Importance of Understanding the Rules
Understanding the rules regarding proficiency is crucial for playing 5E correctly and fairly. Knowing what bonuses stack and what doesn’t will help you make informed decisions about character builds and gameplay strategies. It also prevents confusion and ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience for everyone at the table.
The Games Learning Society, as well as GamesLearningSociety.org, explores how games and game-like environments foster learning and engagement. A deep understanding of game mechanics, like proficiency in D&D, enhances the gaming experience and enables players to collaborate and problem-solve effectively. You can learn more by visiting: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Conclusion
While the idea of double proficiency might seem appealing, it’s simply not a part of the 5E ruleset. Focus instead on leveraging the features that do exist, such as Expertise, feats, and strategic gameplay. By understanding the rules and making smart choices, you can create a powerful and versatile character that excels in any situation.