What do I need to know about taking an Online Proctored Exam?

If you are taking a PTCB exam online, review the testing rules and requirements. 

Before the Exam:

			Visit the PTCB OnVUE Online Testing page: Review the Pearson VUE Online Testing Guide for exam policies, procedures, and system requirements.
			System Test: Click on the PTCB OnVUE page from the same computer and location that you’ll be using on exam day.*  Important Note: tablets are strictly forbidden unless they have a physical keyboard and meet operating system requirements.
			Review the identification (ID) requirements.
			Confirm Exam Time: Double-check your exam date and time (AM or PM and time zone). OnVUE exams are delivered 24 hours a day.

*Do not take your exam in a setting with a corporate firewall (including VPN). If you are taking your online exam in your office, please alert your Network Administrator to the OnVUE system requirements.

Exam Day Requirements:

			Prepare a private testing area.  You are required to be in a private, quiet space without any noise, other people, or other distractions. If the exam proctor detects other individuals or distractions in the testing area or you go outside of the view of your camera during your exam session, the exam session will be revoked and all fees will be forfeited. Do not attempt to take your exam in a vehicle, bathroom, or on your bed.
			Arrive on time.  Check-in begins 30 minutes before your appointment time. If you are more than 15 minutes late past your scheduled exam time, you will not be allowed to begin your exam and will forfeit all fees.
			Clear your testing space.  You are required to have a clean and clutter-free testing space. During check-in, you will be required to use your cell phone or portable webcam to take four photos of your testing space.
			Remove additional materials, paper, and writing tools from the area. You are not allowed to use paper, erasable whiteboards, calculators, or any other physical writing object, such as a pen, marker, or pencil. Watches, including smartwatches, must be removed and placed out of your sight and reach during the exam. You cannot use headphones, headsets, or earbuds.  If the proctor detects prohibited items during your exam session, the exam session will be revoked and all fees will be forfeited.* During your OnVUE exam session, you have the option to use a built-in calculator and digital whiteboard feature to do calculations or take notes. Learn more.
			Critical Exam Rules. Charge Your Laptop: Ensure your laptop is fully charged before beginning your exam. If your battery dies or you leave your webcam to get your charger, your exam will be revoked.  Stay in View: Keep your eyes forward and fully visible in your webcam at all times. Do not cover your webcam. Stay Silent: Do not read questions aloud, mumble, or speak unless responding to the proctor. Dress Appropriately: You must be fully clothed for your exam-No coats or jackets can be worn during your exam. No Restroom Breaks: Do not take your laptop into the restroom. Be Polite: Treat the proctor respectfully – you are being recorded. No smoking or vaping: This is not allowed during the exam. Phone Rules: Only answer calls from Pearson VUE technical support at [phone].

Please refer to Pearson VUE’s PTCB OnVUE page for more information, including answers to frequently asked questions. The section is located at the bottom of the page.

*If your exam is revoked by Pearson VUE for any reason, you will be required to take any future PTCB exams at a Pearson VUE test center.