Proctored Electronic Testing Frequently Asked Questions
We know that you may have a question pertaining to this new testing opportunity. Below is a listing of some of the most frequently asked questions. If, after reviewing this list, you still have a question or two, please contact Shawn Hicks, shicks@longmgt.com.
What is the cost advantage to pay for proctored electronic testing as it is compared to a free paper-pencil test at the EXPO or local regional conference?
If the EXPO or regional conference is in your area there may be little or no cost advantage to taking a proctored electronic test. However, if you are sending a technician (s) to an event to take a written exam. There are several items you should factor in before sending: cost of transportation, lodging, food, and time away from the job. By using a local proctored electronic testing site, your cost savings is greatly increased, not to mention the convenience factor.
How do I apply for online testing?
You must first apply for certification and/or accreditation with IDEA. After you have completed your application, and paid for and received your study materials from IDEA, you are then eligible to apply for the online proctored testing. When you are ready to test, you can fill out and submit the proctored testing application with payment information. After this proctored testing application is received and processed you will then receive an email with instructions on how to book a testing time at a local proctored testing site.
Is there a discount for having 5 or more technicians taking a test?
There is no quantity discount for online testing. However, if you do have 5 or more technicians within your organization or zip code that would like to take tests, you may contact IDEA to make arrangements for an IDEA proctor to come to your location.
Paying twice? (IDEA Registration & Booking)
The fees for on-line, proctored testing are in addition to any previous fees you have remitted to the IDEA.
How do I obtain directions to the testing location?
Our booking site will give you the physical address of the testing place, and then you will be able to use Mapquest, Google Maps or other online mapping program to find specific directions.
What form of payment is acceptable?
For your convenience, you may use Visa, MasterCard, Discover or AMEX.
If I am testing online, why do I need the confirmation email?
You need an active email account in order to receive the confirmation email that will be produced when you register. This email will be printed and brought to the testing site.
If I take the test electronically and don't pass, can I retest "on paper" at Expo/Educational Conference? Or retest electronically if I failed previous "on paper" test?
If you fail the electronic test you may retest on paper at the Expo or approved IDEA site where IDEA testing is offered at no cost. If you have failed the paper test, you can take the test electronically, however you will be asked to pay the "First Time Cost".
What is the deadline to reschedule/cancel a test date?
48 hours - if an appointment is cancelled less than 48 hours in advance, you will be charged as if the exam occurred.
What if I fail to show up for my scheduled testing date or if I am late?
If an appointment is cancelled less than 48 hours in advance or if an applicant fails to show, or is late for scheduled testing, the applicant will forfeit booking time and fees.
What should I bring with me to the test site?
Basically, bring yourself along with the required identification and confirmation email. You can't bring into the proctored site the following: IDEA Study Guide(s), notes, calculator or a cell phone.
Can I bring my own drink? Can I smoke?
No drinks or smoking is allowed inside. The exam does not permit breaks.
If I fail, is there a specific time period I must wait to re-test, of can I take the test again right away?
Yes, but if you wish to take your exam electronically, you will need to rebook an exam time.
How do I get another confirmation e-mail, if one was never received or misplaced?
Contact Stephanie Long at slong@longmgt.com, and she will have one sent to you.
How long before I know my test score?
You will know the pass/fail results of your test immediately. You will, however, not know the exact percentage, as this is not an IDEA policy.
What is a testing center?
A testing center is a testing/training center in which individuals go to facilitate proctored testing programs. The testing centers are spread throughout US and Canada. Here is a map of the US testing centers. Here is a list of the Canadian testing centers.
Can I test online from home?
In order to preserve the integrity of the process, we provide an environment in which a person can take a proctored test. If a test is not professionally proctored, the integrity of the entire program could be jeopardized.