CER Certified Electronic Reporter exam-day guide
CER Certified Electronic Reporter · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring an unexpired ID with a photo and signature. Confirm with the provider which document types are accepted, and make sure the name on your ID matches your registration exactly; name-discrepancy rules vary by provider.
Appointment confirmation / authorization code
Have the confirmation email, registration number, or launch code accessible (printed and on your phone). Confirm with the provider whether the code is single-use and how far in advance the test link activates.
Platform login credentials, tested in advance
Verify your username and password work on the testing platform at least a day ahead. Know the password-reset path in case you are locked out on test day.
Compatible computer with webcam, microphone, and speakers
If the exam is remotely proctored, confirm with the provider the minimum system requirements and whether a headset or external camera is permitted or required. A built-in camera may be acceptable; verify.
Stable internet connection plus a backup
Use a wired or strong Wi-Fi connection and have a mobile hotspot or second network ready. Confirm with the provider what happens to your time and answers if the connection drops.
Private, quiet, well-lit room
Use a room with a door you can close, no other people, and enough light for a proctor to see you. Clear the desk of papers, books, phones, and second screens unless the provider permits them.
Power adapter and a charged backup device
Plug in your laptop and keep a charged phone nearby in case you need to reach support. Keep the phone silenced and out of reach unless the proctor instructs otherwise.
Water and a snack
Bring water and a light snack in case a scheduled break allows it. Confirm with the provider whether drinks and food may be at your desk or must stay out of camera view during the exam.
Permitted scratch materials only
Bring paper and pen only if the provider explicitly allows them. Many proctored exams prohibit scratch paper or require it to be shown and destroyed; confirm the prohibited-items list before test day.
Copy of the published content outline
Review the provider's official content outline and any candidate handbook so you know which domains are tested (for example legal and regulatory, technical and procedural, and professional and ethical topics) and how they are weighted.
Known test specifications
Write down the time limit, number of items, item format, and passing standard from the provider's official materials so you can pace yourself. Do not rely on secondhand claims about these numbers.
Timekeeping device, if allowed
Confirm whether a wristwatch is permitted and whether the platform displays a countdown timer. If a watch is allowed, choose a simple non-smart model.
Plan the day
Re-read the provider's candidate handbook and confirm appointment time, time zone, delivery format (in person or remote), and identification requirements. Run the platform's system check on the exact computer you will use. Build a short review plan around your weakest content domains and stop learning new material after this point.
Protect your sleep schedule. Shift bedtime so you are sharp at your scheduled start time, especially if your appointment is early morning or late in the day.
Do a full dry run: log in to the testing platform, test camera, microphone, and speakers, and confirm your backup internet works. Charge every device and pack your ID, confirmation, charger, and any permitted materials in one place.
Prepare the testing room - clear the desk, remove prohibited items, check lighting, and tell household members your exam window. Do light review of summary notes only, then stop and get a full night's sleep.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate, and do only brief review of high-level outlines. Avoid new material and avoid cramming in the final hour.
Log in or arrive early, allow extra time for identity verification, and close all other applications. Silence your phone, keep your ID within reach, and use the restroom before you begin.
Read each item completely before answering, and watch the countdown timer to keep a steady pace. If the platform allows flagging, mark uncertain items and return to them rather than stalling.
Take a break only at a point the provider permits, and follow the proctor's instructions about leaving and re-entering camera view. If anything fails technically, note the time and contact provider support immediately rather than troubleshooting alone.
Rules to check
Carry valid government-issued photo identification and be ready to present it on request. Confirm with the provider the exact name-match policy and whether a secondary ID is needed.
Keep only approved items at your workstation. Notes, textbooks, phones, smart watches, and second monitors are normally prohibited; confirm the provider's permitted-materials list before test day.
Do not communicate with anyone during the exam except the proctor or support staff. If remotely proctored, remain in camera view, keep your microphone on as instructed, and stay in the testing room.
Take breaks only at times the provider allows. An unscheduled break may be recorded, may not stop your timer, or may end your session - confirm the specific break policy with the provider.
Do not copy, photograph, record, or share exam content in any form. Treat all items as confidential, before and after the exam.
Follow every proctor instruction immediately. If a proctor asks you to adjust your camera, show your desk, or verify your identity, comply before continuing.
If a technical failure interrupts your exam, stop and contact provider support right away, note the time, and follow their documented incident procedure rather than restarting or reopening the exam on your own.
Results, scoring method, and retake rules vary by provider. Confirm how and when scores are reported and what the retake and appeal process is, rather than assuming a pass/fail threshold.