CCHN(C) exam-day guide
CCHN(C) · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired ID in the name used on your registration. Confirm with the provider which ID forms are accepted and whether a secondary ID is required.
Exam admission or scheduling confirmation
Have your appointment confirmation, candidate number, or testing-agency login available. Confirm with the provider what admission document is required and whether digital copies are accepted.
Provider-approved testing accommodations documentation
If you requested accommodations, carry the approval notice. Confirm with the provider the deadline and format for submitting or presenting accommodation approvals.
Knowledge of permitted and prohibited items
Many testing centers restrict phones, smart watches, notes, and bags. Confirm with the provider the exact prohibited-item list and whether secure storage is available.
Personal items plan (water, snack, medication)
Access to personal items during breaks varies by site. Confirm with the provider whether food, water, or medication may be accessed during breaks and how to request it.
Arrival time and location details
Note the reporting time, building address, parking, and transit options. Confirm with the provider how early to arrive and what happens if you are late.
Break policy understood
Know how many breaks are allowed, whether they count against your time, and how to signal a proctor. Confirm with the provider the specific break rules for your exam.
Scoring and result timeline understood
Know the passing standard and when results are released. Confirm with the provider the current passing score and result-release timeline, as these can change.
Rest and logistics plan for the night before
Plan sleep, travel, and meals so the morning is low-stress. Avoid last-minute study of new material; review summaries only.
Backup plan for travel or technology failure
If testing remotely, confirm with the provider the technical requirements, system check, and rescheduling policy for technical failures.
Emergency contact and provider contact number
Save the testing provider's contact number in case of delay or illness. Confirm with the provider the procedure for same-day issues.
Review of exam format and question types
Be familiar with question formats and navigation. Confirm with the provider the current format, number of items, and time allotted.
Plan the day
Stop learning new content. Review your own summary notes, weak areas, and the exam format. Confirm logistics: location, travel time, ID, admission documents, and any accommodation approvals. Protect sleep and avoid cramming.
Do a light review only, then stop. Prepare your bag with ID, admission confirmation, and approved items. Set alarms, plan meals, and check travel conditions. Confirm with the provider any last-minute instructions sent by email.
Eat a normal meal, arrive early per the provider's reporting time, and bring only permitted items. Use the restroom before check-in. Stay calm and avoid discussing content with other candidates.
Read each question carefully, answer easier items first if the platform allows review, and flag uncertain items to revisit. Track time against the number of remaining items. Use breaks as permitted without losing track of time.
Note any technical issues immediately with the proctor or provider. Confirm with the provider when and how results will be released, and keep your confirmation documents until results arrive.
Rules to check
Present original, valid photo ID matching your registration; confirm with the provider which documents are accepted.
Follow all proctor instructions and testing-center or remote-proctoring rules; confirm with the provider the specific conduct rules before test day.
Do not bring or use prohibited items such as phones, smart watches, or notes unless the provider explicitly permits them; confirm the prohibited-item list with the provider.
Breaks are typically allowed under provider-specific rules and may or may not count against your time; confirm the break policy with the provider.
Scoring and the passing standard are set by the certifying body and can change; confirm the current passing score and scoring method with the provider rather than relying on secondhand information.
Report any technical problems, interruptions, or suspected irregularities to the proctor immediately; confirm with the provider the process for documenting issues.
Do not discuss, record, or share exam content; testing agreements typically prohibit disclosure, so confirm the exact confidentiality terms with the provider.
If you are late, ill, or unable to test, contact the provider as soon as possible; confirm with the provider the rescheduling, cancellation, and refund policies.