CRE (ASQ)

For computer-delivered testing, ASQ states the CRE exam is a one-part, 165-question exam offered in English only, with 150 questions scored and 15 unscored. Total appointment time is four and a half hours, and exam time is 4 hours and 18 minutes. The paper-and-pencil version is 150 questions in four hours.

Yes. ASQ states all examinations are open book and each participant must bring his or her own reference materials. Materials must be bound and remain bound: stitching, glue, ring binders, spiral binders, plastic snap binders, brads, or screw posts. Hand-stapled documents not securely fastened in their covers are not allowed, and the test center administrator inspects all references before you enter.

ASQ lists eight years of on-the-job experience in one or more areas of the Certified Reliability Body of Knowledge, with three of those years in a decision-making position, in a full-time paid role. Decision-making means authority to define, execute, or control projects or processes and responsibility for the outcome. Education waivers reduce the eight years: one year for a technical or trade school diploma, two for an associate degree, four for a bachelor's, and five for a master's or doctorate, with only one waiver claimed.

If you do not pass a computer-based exam, ASQ says you receive a performance summary by email within 3-5 business days. For two years from your previous attempt you can apply at a significantly reduced retake rate. Results for paper-based tests are slightly delayed.

For computer-based testing, ASQ states you get your result immediately after submitting the exam, and within 3-5 business days you receive an email confirming the result. ASQ also sends a separate email on claiming your digital certificate and badge. For exams with updated or new Bodies of Knowledge (pilot exams), ASQ communicates results within five weeks.

ASQ says application review takes 1-2 business days online and 3-5 for hardcopy. After approval, you receive an eligibility email 1-2 business days later with instructions to schedule with Prometric. Paper-based or translated candidates do not receive an eligibility email; instead a seating letter with date, time, and location arrives about two weeks before the exam.

ASQ requires changes at least five days before your appointment, made through Prometric's Reschedule/Cancel option or its automated voice response system, with a $130 fee for changing an appointment. For candidates taking a translated, paper-based exam in China, all reschedules and cancellations must be completed at least 45 days before the examination date. Failure to appear forfeits all application fees.

Bring one valid, government-issued photo ID with a signature, matching the name on your application, plus your bound reference materials. ASQ advises planning to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment for check-in; if you are late you will not be allowed to test and will forfeit your exam fee. Prometric provides scratch paper and pencils.

Start with the CRE Body of Knowledge itself, since ASQ states it includes subtext explanations and the cognitive level at which questions are written. Then work through the references list ASQ publishes for the exam. Because the exam is open book, practice locating formulas and tables in your own bound materials quickly rather than memorizing them.