CompTIA Data+ exam-day guide
CompTIA Data+ · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Primary government-issued photo ID
Bring an unexpired ID with photo and signature; the name must match your CompTIA/Pearson VUE registration exactly. Confirm accepted ID forms and whether a second ID is required with the provider.
Appointment confirmation and test-center/online details
Know your exam date, time, location, and check-in instructions. For a test center, save the address and phone number; for online proctoring, save the check-in link.
CompTIA/Pearson VUE account credentials
Confirm you can log in before exam day; reset the password if needed. Keep credentials accessible but out of the testing room if prohibited.
Arrival or check-in plan
For a test center, plan to arrive early enough for ID check and security; confirm the recommended arrival time with the provider. For online proctoring, start the OnVUE check-in early.
Completed system test for online proctoring
needs_review: Run the provider's system test for webcam, microphone, speakers, and internet. Confirm current technical requirements and room-scan rules with the provider.
Private, quiet room and clear desk for online proctoring
Remove notes, phones, smartwatches, second monitors, and other unauthorized items from the room. Keep your ID and computer only; follow proctor instructions for the room scan.
Storage plan for personal items
At a test center, use the provided locker or storage for phone, watch, notes, and bag. For online proctoring, keep all prohibited items out of the testing room and out of reach.
Comfortable clothing and layers
Dress for a quiet, temperature-controlled room. Avoid hats, hoods, and bulky items unless required for religious or medical reasons; confirm exceptions with the proctor or provider.
Glasses or other approved accessibility items
Bring glasses if you need them. If you require an accommodation, confirm approval and any allowed items with the provider before exam day.
Light snack and water for before/after
Eat and hydrate before check-in; food and drink are generally not allowed in the testing room. Confirm break rules with the provider.
Exam-format familiarity
Know the format: approximately 90 questions in 90 minutes, with a passing score of 750 on a 100-900 scale; performance-based items may appear. Confirm current exam details on the provider's site.
Plan the day
Confirm appointment details, ID name match, and test-center/online requirements. Complete any system test for online proctoring. Do light review of weak objectives and formulas; avoid learning brand-new topics. Protect sleep.
Stop heavy cramming. Review a one-page summary of key terms, formulas, and data-quality/governance concepts. Prepare ID, clothing, and travel or room setup. Charge devices; test internet and power. Set two alarms.
Eat a normal meal and hydrate. Recheck ID and confirmation. For a test center, leave early and arrive within the provider's recommended window. For online proctoring, close all apps, clear the room, and begin check-in early. Breathe and slow down.
Follow proctor instructions, present ID, store prohibited items, and complete the room scan if online. Report any technical issue immediately; do not troubleshoot alone.
Use the clock: about 90 minutes for 90 questions leaves roughly one minute per item, but performance-based items take longer. Read each question fully, flag uncertain items, and return to them. Use only on-screen tools the exam provides.
Review flagged questions if time allows, confirm no unanswered items, and submit. Once submitted, you generally cannot return to the exam.
Rules to check
Follow all proctor and test-center instructions. Unauthorized materials, phones, smartwatches, notes, and second monitors are prohibited in the testing room; confirm storage rules with the provider.
Your ID must be valid and the name must match your registration exactly. If your name differs, resolve it with the provider before exam day.
Do not communicate with anyone during the exam, and do not share or reproduce exam content. The CompTIA Candidate Agreement and exam security rules apply.
Breaks are generally not allowed during the exam; if you need one, confirm the policy and obtain proctor approval. Time may not stop for breaks.
Scoring is reported on a 100-900 scale with a passing score of 750 for Data+. Confirm current passing score and exam details with the provider before your appointment.
Rescheduling, cancellation, and refund policies vary; confirm deadlines and fees with the provider rather than assuming a window.
If a technical problem occurs, pause and notify the proctor immediately. Do not attempt unauthorized fixes or leave the camera view.
Use only approved on-screen tools, such as a calculator or notepad if provided. Do not bring your own calculator or reference materials; confirm available tools with the provider.