To schedule, reschedule and cancel exam:
You'll be redirected to your testing program's website to begin
Navigate your testing experience with ease
Before test day
ID requirements for testing online
Make sure you have acceptable ID
Before testing online, you’ll need to provide a headshot photo of yourself, your identification (ID), and your testing space. If for any reason your current headshot does not closely match the picture on your ID, please contact your exam sponsor to discuss whether an ID exception can be granted.
Identification must meet the requirements outlined below.
- All IDs must be valid (unexpired) government-issued originals (i.e., not a photocopy or an electronic version)
- IDs must include the test-taker’s name and a recent, recognizable photo
- The first and last name on the ID must match the first and last name used to register for the exam
- For test-takers under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian must present their own ID during check-in and give consent for the test-taker to be recorded. If they have one, the test-taker must also present a government-issued ID. If they do not, a student ID will suffice.
- Acceptable forms of ID:
- International travel passport
- Driver's license
- Identification card (national, state or province ID card)
- Alien registration card (green card or permanent resident/visa)
- Aadhaar card: See Aadhaar ID Policy for OnVUE
- Unacceptable IDs:
- Restricted IDs*, including the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Common Access Card (CAC) or certain secure access IDs
- IDs from countries where OnVUE delivery is restricted: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic (Syria), Russia, Belarus, and the Sevastopol/Crimea and Donetsk/Luhansk (Donbas) regions of Ukraine.
- Digital IDs
* Pearson VUE cannot accept restricted IDs—those prohibited by law from being photocopied, digitized, or captured on camera—as identification for online testing.
On test day
STEP 1. Do any last-minute prep
Be sure your computer and internet pass the pre-exam system test. Clear your desk/workspace of prohibited items and prep your equipment. Get your ID ready to present. Review our Exam rules /
testing advice for specifics.
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STEP 2. Check in
You can begin the check-in process up to 30 minutes before to 15
minutes after your appointment time.
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STEP 3. Start your exam
While testing, it's best to focus on the questions and not get distracted. Observe all the environmental and behavioral rules. If you need help
during your exam, use the chat icon to request assistance.
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Exam rules / testing advice
Exam rules
To maintain high security throughout online exams, protect exam content, and confirm you’re following online-testing rules, you will be monitored at all times. Audio and video may be recorded, and an exam monitor/proctor may contact you or even stop your exam if they witness any questionable behavior.
- You must stay in your designated testing space, in view of your webcam throughout your exam
- Testing in bathrooms is not permitted
- You cannot get up and walk around or leave your testing environment, unless breaks are permitted by your exam program
- Unless requested by a greeter or proctor, do not move your webcam once your exam has started
- No one can enter or pass through your testing environment
- You may not communicate with anyone other than your proctor
- Do not read the test questions aloud; mumbling or speaking out loud will lead to a warning
- Keep your mobile phone in the room where you’re testing, but out of arm’s reach
- You must be fully clothed throughout your entire exam
- A beverage in any container is allowed, as is chewing gum, but eating, smoking, or other tobacco use is prohibited
- Headphones and headsets (wired or Bluetooth) are not allowed unless explicitly approved by your test sponsor
Advice for a successful online testing experience
When testing online, preparation is key. We have several areas of advice to help you get the most out of your online testing experience.
- Make sure you have the right equipment
- Use the best internet connection possible
- Take the system test
- Prepare your testing environment
- Start the check-in process
- Tips for capturing your photos
- Remember you’ll be recorded
- Dealing with technical issues
- Creating a support ticket
For additional details and even more helpful info, download our guide to taking your exam online
Testing policies, FAQs and more
Thoroughly review these technical requirements to ensure your system is compatible with the OnVUE online testing software. If your system does not meet the requirements and causes a problem during the exam, you will be responsible for any costs associated with rescheduling your exam.
NOTE: The two most frequent causes of technical issues are (1) testing on an employer-issued computer and (2) unreliable internet connections. Firewalls or security settings from employer-issued computers may prevent the OnVUE software from operating properly. Unreliable internet connections (e.g., wireless networks, hotels, VPNs (prohibited), mobile hotspots) may interrupt connectivity. For these reasons, we strongly recommend using a personal computer (i.e., one not issued by your employer) and a wired, ethernet connection.
Taking an exam with OnVUE is flexible, convenient and easy. However, it also has unique rules and requirements. For the best possible testing experience, we strongly recommend you get familiar with these before taking your exam.
The document below details the standard policies and procedures for online testing. Your program may have additional requirements, which you can find elsewhere on this page. Familiarizing yourself with this information will help your entire testing experience go smoothly—from checking in to logging out.
Prior to testing
Q. Where can I take my exam?
A. You need to test in an enclosed, private space where you can maintain a strong and stable internet connection, prevent interruptions, and protect the integrity of your exam content. Testing in bathrooms is not permitted. If the bathroom is the only quiet space available in your home, we suggest finding an alternative testing area.
Important: Avoid a testing space with windows or glass partitions that would allow a third party to see your screen, or your exam could be revoked.
Q. How do I know my computer will work with the OnVUE software?
A. To ensure your system will work with our software, first, review the minimum system requirements. Next, perform a system test and download the OnVUE software prior to your exam day.
On exam day, before your exam begins, we strongly recommend re-checking your system by running another system test. If you experience any issues, please log back into your account to reschedule your exam. If you can’t reschedule your exam, use the chat feature to ask your program-specific customer service team for assistance.
Q. How do I know my computer will work with the OnVUE software?
A. The system test checks for:
- Download of the OnVUE application and secure browser
- Unzipping and launching of the secure browser
- Microphone/webcam/speaker functionality and permissions
- Download speeds
- General communications between OnVUE and Pearson VUE servers
- A live video-streaming connection
Q. How do I schedule my OnVUE exam?
A. Once you’ve verified your computer meets system requirements, sign into your account. Select the exam you want to take, then choose the “home or office” option. Follow the remaining prompts to schedule your exam appointment. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details and important information for exam day.
Q. Is my testing space okay for testing?
A. Your proctor will make this decision prior to starting your exam. During check-in, you will be asked to take photos of your testing space, which the proctor will review.
For a positive outcome, make sure your space is private and secure. Clear the room of any preparation materials or unauthorized items. Unplug and/or turn off additional monitors (and, if applicable, systems). Any visible materials on the walls—including sticky notes, whiteboards or chalkboards, etc.—may be inspected by your proctor, and we may ask you to remove any such material.
Important: If your testing space fails the room scan, you will not be permitted to take the exam and may forfeit your exam fees.
Q. Can I take my exam using an employer-issued computer?
A. Yes, however, we don’t recommend it. Test-takers typically have a better experience with personal computers. This is because employer-issued computers are more likely to have firewalls, VPNs, and other security policies that may block video streaming during the exam. If you must use an employer-issued computer to take your exam, it’s crucial to review the technical requirements.
Q. May I connect by tethering to a mobile hotspot?
A. We don’t recommend it. Hotspot technology is not ideal for maintaining a reliable and consistent connection. To ensure optimal performance on exam day, perform a system test.
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Cheking in
Q. How do I check in for my test and download the software?
A. You may have two options:
- Refer to your confirmation, reschedule or reminder email, which might have a Check-in to start exam link. If it does, you can click this link from 30 minutes before to 15 minutes past your appointment start time.
- Click the log in button on this page or your test sponsor’s external landing page. Once you’ve logged into your account, your exam will appear under Open Online Exams. Select the exam link and then select Check-in.
With either process, you’ll be asked to download and run OnVUE, our online proctoring software.
Q. I don’t see the Check-in button. What should I do?
A. To check in for your exam, log in to your account no earlier than 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Once logged in, you should see the Check-in button. If it's not visible within 15 minutes of your exam appointment time, contact your program-specific customer service team via chat.
Q. What type of identification will I need?
A. Click the View ID requirements button on this page to make sure you have the proper ID for online-proctored testing
Q. My proctor hasn’t started my exam yet. Where is my proctor?
A. Once you've completed the required check-in steps and have completed taking photos of your face, ID and environment, you will see the following message: You are almost done with the check-in process. Next, you’ll be placed in a queue and will wait momentarily while a proctor reviews your check-in steps. Please be aware, other candidates may be ahead of you in line. The OnVUE application should tell you where you are in queue. Most exams are launched by a proctor within 15 minutes of the appointment start time.
Any delay might mean there’s a problem with your photos or internet connection. For issues with your photos, a proctor will attempt to reach you over chat or via your cell phone. You may not recognize the phone number, which will either have a 617 US area code or say “Pearson VUE” on the caller ID, but please answer so we can assist. If we haven't contacted you within 30 minutes, we may have lost connection to you. In such cases, please contact our customer service team via Pearson OnVUE Support live chat. As a reminder, mobile devices must be kept out of arm’s reach during the testing sessions.
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During exam
Q. Can other people be in my testing space during the exam?
A. No. You cannot allow anyone else—including children, roommates, colleagues, etc.—to enter or even pass through your testing space once you’ve started your exam.
Q. Can I receive any exam assistance during the test?
A. No. The proctor cannot answer questions related to exam content, and you may not get help from other individuals while taking the exam.
Q. Is technical software assistance available during the exam?
A. Should you experience technical difficulties during your exam, simply raise your hand using the OnVUE application at the top of your screen and a proctor will assist you. If for some reason this is unavailable, you can get help via the chat button on the OnVUE download page.
Most issues can be avoided by completing a system test and ensuring that you meet all system requirements in advance of testing. Common issues include an unreliable internet connection and third-party applications trying to run during your exam. We strongly recommend that candidates confirm that all applications have been closed and that there is a sufficient and reliable internet connection prior to testing new one.
Q. What are the rules regarding personal belongings?
A. In general, all personal belongings must remain out of arm’s reach during your exam. However, if your exam program allows personal belongings or testing tools like calculators during an exam, you will find that information in the program-specific policies section of this page.
Q. Can I eat or drink during the exam?
A. Drinking beverages is allowed during your exam, as is chewing gum. Eating or using tobacco products during your exam is prohibited.
Q. Can I take a break during the exam?
A. Each exam program establishes its own break policies. If your program allows breaks, you’ll find that information in the program-specific policies section of this page.
Q. Could I be interrupted by a proctor during my testing session?
A. Yes. Proctors may interrupt exams and take action if they witness any suspicious behavior or rule violations. They may need to offer a reminder (e.g., no talking) or investigate something (e.g., show me the room, your desk, etc.).
Q. What types of prohibited behaviors will the proctor watch for during the exam?
A. Examples of prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to, failing to follow proctor instructions, looking off the screen, mumbling or speaking aloud, covering your mouth or face, using unauthorized materials (e.g., mobile phones, recording equipment, writing materials), interacting with third parties intentionally or unintentionally, or leaving the webcam view.
Q. What happens if I lean outside the view of the webcam or leave completely?
A. Unless it’s during a scheduled break built into your exam, leaving the webcam view for any reason or duration, even if you have already completed the exam questions, will result in your exam session being terminated and the exam result being invalidated.
Important: Upon exam completion, you must fully close the OnVUE application before leaving the webcam view.
Q. What happens if my mobile phone rings or issues a notification during an exam?
A. Once your exam has started, keep your mobile phone in the room where you’re testing, but out of arm’s reach in case the proctor needs to call you. Your phone may not be kept in your immediate testing workspace. We recommend placing it on the floor beneath you or a desk/table behind you.
If your phone rings during the exam, limit your interaction to identifying the caller. To do so, you may reach for your phone, but you must stay within the webcam view. The proctor must be able to see you access the phone. Any mobile phone use other than speaking with a proctor is grounds for exam revocation.
When a proctor needs to reach you, they will call, not text. The number will always display as 617-379-0635, and/or caller ID may identify the number as “Pearson VUE.” If this information appears, please answer the call. If your phone rings and the call is not from a Pearson VUE proctor, do not answer it.
Q. Can tablets or mobile devices be used for OnVUE exams? What about touchscreens?
A. At this time, OnVUE exams may only be taken on desktop and laptop computers running Windows or macOS operating systems that meet these minimum specifications. OnVUE does not support the use of tablets or touchscreens. As noted above, mobile devices are not allowed and should be placed out of arm’s reach.
Q. What happens if my internet connection is disrupted during an exam or the proctor asks me to restart my application?
A. If a disconnection occurs, the exam timer will pause, and a proctor will attempt to contact you either through your computer or by phone. Note: You must respond or your testing session will be revoked.
Should you lose connection, or if a proctor asks you to restart OnVUE, you can relaunch the application as follows:
- Locate your Downloads folder and reopen the OnVUE application.
- Complete any necessary check-in steps and then click Next. Your exam should reload and begin. If your exam does not relaunch, contact our customer service team for additional support.
Once your connection is reestablished and if necessary, the application restarted, you will resume your exam from the question or moment you left.
Q. Can I adjust my font size during my exam?
A. Yes. Even when the testing computer is locked down during an exam, you may still use CTRL+ and CTRL- to magnify content up to 200%. Do not use touchscreen technology at any time during your exam.
Q. Can I read questions aloud during OnVUE exams?
A. No. If this happens, a proctor will ask you to stop reading the questions aloud. If you continue, your exam may be revoked.
Q. What is the digital whiteboard?
A. Because scratch paper or note boards are not allowed when taking an OnVUE exam, some exam programs allow you to use a built-in digital whiteboard to do scratch work or take notes.
Q. Where can I locate my score report?
A. This differs by exam program. Please review your program’s processes to learn when and where you can access your score report.
Q. Can I use headphones?
A. Headphones and headsets (wired or Bluetooth) are not allowed unless explicitly approved by your test sponsor.
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General
Q. Are OnVUE testing policies different from test center policies?
A. Yes. Because of its remote nature, testing with OnVUE requires that candidates agree to additional policies that help protect exam integrity. These include (but are not limited to) consenting to recording and monitoring throughout the exam, along with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technology techniques. Test-takers must accept these policies during the registration process prior to scheduling an exam.
Q. If an exam is offered in both test centers and via OnVUE, can I book the exam in one delivery method and reschedule it to the other?
A. No, as the rescheduling function cannot be used to change the exam delivery method. Instead, if you wish to change the delivery method, you must cancel the original appointment and then schedule a new one.
BASICS
Q. What is an online proctored exam?
A. An online proctored exam is delivered online and supervised, or proctored, by a person remotely located through the exam taker’s webcam. It’s also known as remote proctoring, remote online proctoring, or in the UK is sometimes referred to as remote invigilation.
Q. Which certification exams are available for online proctoring?
A. We offer all AWS Certification exams via online proctoring using the exam delivery provider, Pearson VUE. You can learn more about these certifications here.
Q. How do I know if online proctoring is right for me?
A. Online Proctoring (OP) is a great option if you prefer the convenience of testing from the comfort of your home or work office. It is required to have a quiet space without any noise or other distractions. Please review all policies and System requirements above to check if OP is right for you. Please note that breaks are not permitted during the exam session and you will be required to communicate with the proctor in the proctoring language you selected during registration. If you feel uncertain about the OP experience, we recommend that you schedule your exam at a traditional test center.
Q. Are there workspace requirements? How do I know if my home or office location is ok?
A. During the check-in process, you will be asked to take photos of your work area, which will be checked by security prior to exam launch. If your workspace does not pass a room scan, you are not permitted to proceed with taking the exam. Exam candidates are ultimately responsible for ensuring the workspace meets all of the requirements.
Please ensure that your desktop is clean and that you are not within arm’s reach of books, notepads, sticky notes, papers, pens, pencils, and other writing instruments/objects. Items on the wall with writing on them, such as whiteboards, will be inspected.
Additional monitors and computers must be unplugged and turned off, and all smart accessories and devices must be removed and turned off. If you want to use an external monitor instead of a laptop screen, you must close the laptop lid, as only one monitor is allowed, and use an external keyboard, mouse, and webcam.
Please ensure that you are in a well-lit room for the proctor to see you and your workspace. Avoid exam locations with a light source behind you (such as a window or bright lamp). An artificial light source is recommended, as the availability of natural light may change over the course of your exam appointment.
Remember that no third party may enter the room during your exam. If this occurs, your exam session will be terminated. This room will need to be a quiet space without any noise or other distractions.
Q. Are there specific hours that I am able to schedule an online proctored exam?
A. Exams can be scheduled around the clock between four times per hour: on the hour, and again every 15 minutes after that. (For example, an exam starting at 9 a.m. local time would be followed during the next hour with exams at 9:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 9:45 a.m.)
Q. What language(s) are online proctored exams available?
A. Candidates can take a certification exam in any of our available languages. However, the online proctors only provide support in English, Mandarin, Spanish, or Japanese. You will choose the proctor language during exam registration. You will need to be fluent in the selected language in order to communicate with the proctor. Note that candidates may choose online proctoring where our exams are currently available.
Q. Can I take an online proctored exam from anywhere in the world? Are there any geographical restrictions for taking an online proctored exam?
A. Candidates may choose online proctoring where our exams are currently available.
Q. Where can I find online proctored exam policies?
A. You will need to agree to the AWS Certification Program Agreement, the test delivery provider's terms and conditions as part of your exam registration process, and before you take the exam, you will also need to agree to Pearson VUE's Terms and Conditions for taking exams in an online proctored environment.
Q. Are exams delivered via online proctoring more difficult than exams delivered at test centers?
A. There is no difference in the level of difficulty between the exam offered in test centers or online proctoring.
Q. Are there any differences between taking an exam via online proctoring and taking an exam at a test center?
A. The exam format and time to complete the exam will be the same as exams taken at a test center. However, the online proctors only provide support in English, Spanish, Mandarin, or Japanese. You will choose the proctor language during exam registration. You will need to be fluent in the selected language in order to communicate with the proctor. Please note that breaks are not permitted during the exam session when taken via online proctoring.
Q. Are there age restrictions for the online proctored exam option?
A. Candidates must be at least 13 years old at the time of scheduling an exam (not the date of the exam). Parent or guardian consent is required for candidates 13 to 17 years old prior to scheduling the exam. The consent process can take up to 7-10 business days to complete.
Before the exam
1. Follow the AWS teen testing process for creating an account, submitting a case to obtain a consent form, submitting a completed consent form, and waiting to be authorized to test.
2. After AWS Customer Support confirms the consent request has been approved, sign up for an exam appointment by following the directions described in the FAQ below “How do I schedule an online proctored exam?”
Exam day
1. Check in for the exam online following the steps described in the FAQ above “How do I check in on exam day? What should I expect?”
2. When the greeter joins, the teenage candidate must present one form of photo ID. School IDs are acceptable.
3. Teenage candidates are required to have the parent or guardian with them that signed the authorization form, and the parent/guardian needs to present an ID confirming his/her identify and that he/she (the parent/guardian) is over 18.
4. The greeter will ask the parent/guardian to use the Mobile ID tool to upload his/her ID.
5. The parent/guardian will verbally consent to the teenage candidate taking the exam, show the signed authorization form to the camera, and then be asked to leave the room. If the parent/guardian is not available, does not consent, or if there is an ID mismatch, the Proctor will not allow the exam to start.
6. After the parent/guardian leaves the room, the teenage candidate can begin testing.
Q. Are online proctored exams secure?
A. There are several ways online proctored exams are secured to maintain the integrity of the exam. Pearson VUE utilizes a secure browser that restricts your ability to open and use additional windows and programs during your exam session. Candidates are required to provide real-time photographs of the testing environment. In addition, Pearson VUE's exam proctors are trained to watch for and detect any behavior that may be in violation of test taker policies. If a test taker appears to be in violation of any test taker policies, the proctor may shut down the test taker’s exam.
Q. Is Pearson VUE's access to my computer safe?
A. Pearson VUE employs a virtual lock-down browser system that utilizes secure communications and encryption. Pearson VUE also has access to your webcam and audio until you close the online proctoring software application. Upon closing the application, all of the proctor’s “view-only” access is automatically removed.
Please note: Leaving the view of the webcam for any reason or duration can result in your exam session being terminated and exam result invalidated, even if you have already completed the exam. After completing the exam and receiving your results, you must fully close the application before leaving the view of the webcam. If your session is terminated or invalidated after you’ve already completed the exam, please submit a case to AWS to investigate.
Q. Who will have access to my online proctored exam session?
A. Your online proctored exam is delivered through Pearson VUE's platform, OnVUE. OnVUE adheres to local privacy and data laws in 190 countries. Your exam session will be monitored by a Pearson VUE proctor, and your session may be recorded, both audio and video. In addition, your check-in details including the photo collected of you and your test location, as well as your provided identification, may be stored according to your local privacy and data laws. AWS and its vendors who support testing will have access to some or all of candidates' exam sessions.
Q. Are accommodations available for online proctored exams?
A. The “ESL +30” 30-minute time extension is available to non-native English speakers when taking an online proctored exam in English. This accommodation must be requested through your AWS Certification Account before scheduling your exam. Other accommodations may be available on a case by case basis for online proctored exams. To request other accommodations for online proctored exams, candidates should follow the process to request accommodations with Pearson VUE.
SCHEDULING
Q. How do I schedule an online proctored exam?
A. To register for an online proctored exam, sign in to aws.training and select Certification in the top navigation. Next, select the black GO TO YOUR ACCOUNT button, followed by Schedule New Exam. Find the exam you want to take, and select Schedule with Pearson VUE. You will then be redirected to Pearson VUE’s scheduling page, where you will complete your exam registration. On the Select Exam Delivery Option page, for the question “How do you want to take your exam?” choose the option At my home or office. Follow the subsequent prompts to complete your registration.
Q. How far in advance do I need to register for my exam?
A. Provided there is a slot available, candidates are able to schedule their exam on the same day during the normally available hours for online proctored exams.
EXAM DAY
Q. I have an appointment scheduled for an online proctored exam. How do I start it?
A. To launch your exam, sign in to aws.training and select Certification in the top navigation. Next, click the GO TO YOUR ACCOUNT button, followed by Manage Pearson VUE Exams. In the table for Purchased Online Exams, select your online proctored exam. To get started, click the Begin Exam button. You will be able to launch your exam up to 30 minutes prior to your appointment time. You may also launch your online proctored exam from the unique link in your confirmation email.
Important: please ensure that you have run the system test on your computer prior to your appointment. If you are more than 15 minutes late for your appointment, or your computer does not meet the system test, you will not be able to launch your exam, and your exam fees will be forfeited.
Q. What type of identification will I be required to present?
A. You are required to present an original (not a photocopy) ID that is valid (unexpired) and government-issued. All IDs must include the candidate's name and a recent, recognizable photo. All IDs must have a first and last name that matches the first and last name the candidate used to register for the exam.
Acceptable forms of identification include: driver’s license, military ID, identification card (national/state/province identity card), alien registration card (green card, permanent resident, visa), and government-issued local language ID (not in Roman characters and accepted only if issued by the country in which you are testing).
Q. How do I check in on exam day? What should I expect?
A. Sign in to aws.training and select Certification heading, followed by the black GO TO YOUR ACCOUNT button. From the home page of your AWS Certification Account, click the Manage Pearson VUE Exams button to access your Pearson VUE home page.
- The exam you scheduled will appear under Open Online Exams. Select the exam link and then select Begin exam.
- Have your acceptable identification available so that the proctor can verify your identity, along with your mobile device to take check-in photos of yourself, your ID, and your workspace.
- Close out of all third-party applications (including your internet browser). If there are applications on your computer that are set to automatically update, disable updates until you have completed your exam.
- To check for applications running in the background, use Task Manager to view and force quit any open applications.
- Accessed on a PC via Ctrl-Alt-Delete
- Accessed on a Mac via Command-Option-Esc
- If you are connected to the internet using a VPN service, disconnect from your VPN prior to checking in for your exam. If you are not able to disconnect from your VPN on a work computer, please consider using a personal computer instead.
- You will be placed in a queue and connected with the next available proctor.
- The check-in process takes approximately 10-15 minutes for candidates who have previously completed a system test.
- Being late is not an option. To allow time for the check-in procedure, please be ready when the check-in window opens 30 minutes before the exam start time. If you are late, you will be counted as a no-show and your exam fees will be forfeited.
Q. What are the exam rules on personal belongings?
A. During the exam, you may not access the following types of personal items: mobile phones, headphones or headsets (wired or bluetooth), handheld computers or other electronic devices, pagers, watches, wallets, purses, briefcases, backpacks, bags, hats (or other head coverings), bags, coats/outerwear, books, notes, notebooks, study guides, pens/pencils, contact lens solution and lip balm, food or tobacco products, weapons of any kind, or any other materials not specifically approved.
You are not allowed to use exam-specific materials or scratch paper, erasable whiteboards, or any other physical writing object, such as a pen, marker, or pencil.
Watches, including smartwatches, must be removed and placed out of sight/reach during the exam.
During your OnVUE exam, you may have the option to use a built-in digital whiteboard feature to do scratch work or take notes. Physical scratch paper or note boards are not allowed when taking an OnVUE exam. Learn more »
Q. Do I have to prepare my work area?
A. Yes, you will have to ensure the work area where you intend to take your exam is prepared. Please see the FAQ above “Are there workspace requirements? How do I know if my home or office location is ok?”
Q. Can I eat, drink or take a break during the exam?
A.Drinking beverages in any container is allowed during your exam as is chewing gum. Eating or using tobacco products during your exam is prohibited.
Each exam program establishes its own break policies. If your program allows breaks, you'll find that information in the program-specific policies section of this page. There are no breaks allowed during the exam without approved accommodations. To learn more about how to apply for accommodations prior to scheduling your exam appointment, please visit this page.
Q. What types of prohibited behaviors will the proctors watch for during the exam?
A. Similar to proctors at a testing center, online proctors ensure testing rules are followed, but they also must ensure candidates follow some additional protocols for an online exam. Examples of prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to: failing to follow the proctor’s instructions; looking off the screen; mumbling or speaking aloud; covering your mouth or face; using unauthorized materials (e.g. cell phones, headphones, recording equipment, writing materials, etc.); interacting with third parties intentionally or unintentionally; or leaning outside the view of the webcam. If a proctor identifies any prohibited behavior, he or she will instruct you to stop.
Please note: Leaving the view of the webcam for any reason or duration can result in your exam session being terminated and exam result invalidated, even if you have already completed the exam. After completing the exam and receiving your results, you must fully close the application before leaving the view of the webcam. If your session is terminated or invalidated after you’ve already completed the exam, please submit a case to AWS to investigate.
Q. Is the exam recorded? If so, what is recorded? When does recording start/stop?
A. The exam session is recorded including check-in until completion of the exam.
Q. Can I still take my exam via online proctored delivery if my computer system does not pass the system test?
A. If your computer and/or internet connection do not pass the system test, we do not recommend that you take an online proctored exam. Before scheduling your exam, please take the system test on the computer and internet connection you plan to use for your exam to ensure your system meets the specified requirements.
Q. After my exam has launched, and I am assigned a proctor, how long do I have to complete the exam?
A. Time allowed varies for each AWS Certification exam. For each exam, the time allowed is the same for whether taken at testing centers or via online proctoring. The timer will not start until the check-in process is complete, and you have officially started your exam.
Q. What troubleshooting can I do if I encounter a technical issue?
A. Some of the most frequent issues can be resolved with the following steps:
- Chat with OnVUE technical support if you have an issue during or after exam check-in.
- Close all applications, including your internet browser, and disable application updates.
- Disconnect from your VPN.
- Switch from WiFi to a wired connection via ethernet cable.
- If testing from home, have others in the household disconnect from the internet during your exam.
- Restart the OnVUE application via your downloads folder.
- Confirm your browser and operating system meet the system requirements.
- Make sure you are in your exam appointment window (from 30 minutes before to 15 minutes after your appointment start time).
Q. If I have technical issues during or after exam administration, whom do I contact?
A. During the exam, if there is a technical issue, the proctor will attempt to contact you through chat or VoIP using the OnVue software. If the proctor cannot contact you via chat or VoIP during the technical issue, they will attempt to call you at the phone number you provided. While you are not allowed to have your phone in your immediate workspace during the exam, you are permitted to use your phone in the event of a technical issue to access technical support. Your exam will not be terminated, nor will your exam result be invalidated, if you are accessing technical support and otherwise not violating other policies. If the proctor cannot contact you via chat, VoIP, or your phone, they will send you an email with a Pearson VUE Case Report number and next steps.
If you experience a technical issue during your exam and are unable to reach the proctor through the “raise hand” feature in OnVUE, you can also contact Pearson VUE by going to this page and selecting the “Chat with us” button on the bottom, right of the screen for help. You will need the registration ID from either your exam confirmation or reminder email from Pearson VUE.
If there is an issue after the exam, please contact Pearson VUE and have the Case Report number provided by your proctor available. It may take up to five business days to resolve, and the resolution for each case is determined on a case-by-case basis. Pearson VUE and AWS have visibility of all cases and work on them together. If you already have filed a Case Report with Pearson VUE, you do not need to submit a separate ticket for your case to AWS.
Q. What happens if there is a technical issue that prevents me from completing my exam?
A. The Pearson VUE proctoring staff will attempt to resolve a technical issue in real time or file a customer support case on your behalf if they are unable to resolve the issue. If the proctor cannot resolve the issue, one of two resolutions will occur after a case is created:
- If the technical issue occurs before the exam is started, Pearson VUE will cancel your exam appointment. Cancellation results in Pearson VUE either providing you with a refund or reinstating your original voucher.
- If the technical issue occurs during your exam, Pearson VUE will provide you a voucher for a new appointment.
Q. How do I create a customer support case with Pearson VUE?
A. The Pearson VUE proctoring staff will attempt to resolve a technical issue in real time or file a customer support case on your behalf if they are unable to resolve the issue. If you get disconnected from the proctor and have an urgent issue during or after exam check-in, you can chat with OnVUE technical support to perform troubleshooting.
If you don’t need support during your OnVUE exam appointment, contact Pearson VUE Customer Support by chat, phone, or email. A customer support agent will create a case on your behalf and follow up with you. If you had a technical issue during your exam, the agent will either reinstate your original voucher, refund your payment, or provide a new voucher.
Q. When will I hear back from Pearson VUE customer support?
A. Please allow up to five business days for customer support responses from case escalations. We appreciate your patience as we work to help you and other candidates.
Q. What if my case has not been resolved?
A. Please allow up to five business days for customer support responses from Pearson VUE. If your case has not been resolved within five days after creating a case with Pearson VUE, please submit a ticket with AWS Training and Certification Customer Support. AWS will address the issue on your behalf.
