AEE Certified Energy Manager (CEM) exam-day guide
AEE Certified Energy Manager (CEM) · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
needs_review - confirm with AEE/provider which ID types are accepted and that the name matches your registration exactly.
Exam confirmation or admission document
Print or save the scheduling confirmation and any admission letter; confirm whether a paper or digital copy is accepted.
Approved calculator
Bring a basic scientific calculator if permitted; needs_review - confirm allowed models and whether programmable or graphing calculators are prohibited.
Allowed reference material
If the exam is open-book, bring only the references the provider permits, tabbed and indexed; needs_review - confirm the current allowed-reference list and whether notes or annotations are allowed.
Pencils, pens, and eraser
Bring several No. 2 pencils or pens as required; confirm whether scratch paper and writing tools are supplied.
Scratch paper
needs_review - confirm whether blank scratch paper is allowed or provided; if allowed, bring only unmarked paper.
Non-smart watch or timer
A simple watch can help pace sections if the room clock is not visible; needs_review - confirm whether watches are permitted.
Snack and water
Bring a light snack and water for before or after the exam or an approved break; store them according to test-center rules.
Test-center or online logistics
Know the address, parking or transit, and arrival time; for online proctoring, test the camera, microphone, internet, quiet room, and backup connection.
Comfort items
Bring layers, glasses or contacts, tissues, and any permitted medication; avoid items that violate security rules.
Provider contact information
Save the AEE/provider phone number and email in case of scheduling or technical issues.
Sleep and focus plan
Plan a normal sleep schedule and a light review; do not rely on cramming new material on exam day.
Plan the day
Confirm registration, test format, timing, allowed materials, ID, calculator, break, scoring, and retake policies directly with AEE/provider; print or save the confirmation.
Take one timed practice set under exam-like conditions, focusing on unit conversions, economics, load calculations, and HVAC/lighting fundamentals.
Organize approved references with tabs and prepare a one-page formula and unit index if allowed.
Stop learning new topics; review the formula index and common unit traps; check calculator batteries and device chargers.
Pack ID, confirmation, calculator, references, pencils, snack, and water; confirm travel plans or complete the online system check.
Get a full night of sleep; avoid all-night review.
Eat a normal meal; arrive or log in early per provider instructions; use the restroom; keep review light.
Read each question fully; write down units; estimate before calculating; flag hard items and return to them.
Track time in blocks; leave time to transfer or check answers; take breaks only as allowed.
Use open-book references by index rather than flipping pages; verify unit conversions and economic factors.
Rules to check
Bring ID that matches your registration; confirm the exact ID and name-match rules with AEE/provider before exam day.
Follow all proctor instructions; unauthorized materials, phones, smart watches, or notes can lead to dismissal - confirm what is allowed.
If the exam is open-book, use only approved references; confirm annotation and tabbing rules with the provider.
Confirm the break policy in advance; breaks may not stop the clock, and access to materials or the testing room may be restricted.
Confirm scoring and the pass mark in advance; if there is no guessing penalty, answer every question rather than leaving blanks.
Do not share, copy, or discuss exam content; follow the provider's confidentiality and misconduct rules.
For online proctoring, complete the system check and follow room, desk, and camera rules; confirm the technical-support process.
If you are unsure about a policy, ask AEE/provider before test day rather than relying on hearsay.