ICC R5 exam-day guide
ICC R5 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired ID in the name you registered under. Confirm with the provider which ID types it accepts and whether a secondary ID is required; do not assume a photocopy or digital copy will be accepted.
Confirmation / appointment details
Keep the scheduling confirmation, test-center address or online proctoring link, and your candidate or registration number accessible. Re-read the provider's instructions the day before, since arrival times and check-in steps vary by location and delivery mode.
Know your test format and duration
Before test day, confirm with the provider the number of questions, time limit, and whether the exam is computer-based at a center, online-proctored, or paper. Plan your pacing around the confirmed format rather than hearsay.
Review the provider's permitted-items list
Many exams restrict calculators, notes, phones, and watches. Confirm with the provider what is allowed and what must be stored. Assume personal electronics must be silenced and put away unless told otherwise.
Acceptable calculator (if permitted)
If the exam allows a calculator, confirm the approved model or whether an on-screen calculator is provided. Do not bring a programmable or unapproved device without written confirmation.
Transportation and arrival buffer
Plan to arrive ahead of your reporting time with a buffer for traffic, parking, and security screening. For online proctoring, test your connection, camera, and microphone in advance and have a backup plan such as a phone hotspot.
Rest, hydration, and a light meal
Sleep well the night before and eat a normal meal beforehand. Avoid trying new caffeine levels or heavy meals on test day, as these affect focus more than last-minute cramming.
A simple, layered outfit
Dress comfortably in layers so you can adapt to room temperature. Avoid items that may trigger security checks, such as large jewelry or bulky outerwear, unless the weather requires it.
Written pacing plan
Note your confirmed question count and time limit, then compute an approximate minutes-per-question target. Decide in advance how you will flag and skip time-consuming items to return to later.
Prepared scratch materials (if permitted)
If the provider allows scratch paper or a marker board, confirm the rules in advance; many centers supply and collect these. Never bring your own notes into the testing room unless explicitly permitted.
Emergency contact and provider phone number
Save the provider's contact number in case of a delay, illness, or technical failure. Know the provider's policy for rescheduling or reporting a problem during the exam.
A calm pre-test routine
Decide on a short routine, such as a brief walk, a few slow breaths, and a quick review of your pacing plan. Avoid discussing exam content with other candidates right before the test.
Plan the day
Switch from learning new material to consolidating what you already know. Re-read your own summary notes and error log, focusing on recurring mistakes rather than obscure topics. Confirm logistics: test-center address or proctoring link, reporting time, ID requirements, and permitted items with the provider. Do one or two timed practice sets to rehearse pacing, then stop heavy study. Protect sleep on all three nights.
Do a light review of key concepts and formulas only, then stop. Prepare your ID, confirmation details, and clothing the night before so the morning is simple. Check the weather and travel plan, and confirm any online-proctoring system test is complete. Eat a normal dinner, avoid alcohol, and go to bed at your usual time. Do not start a new topic or a marathon cram session.
Eat a normal breakfast, hydrate moderately, and avoid excess caffeine. Leave with a generous buffer for arrival or log in early for proctoring check-in. Bring only permitted items and store your phone as instructed. Do a short breathing exercise and review your pacing plan, not new content. If something goes wrong, contact the provider immediately rather than rushing.
Read each question fully and watch for qualifiers such as 'best', 'first', or 'except'. Answer easier questions first and flag uncertain ones to revisit. Budget time based on your confirmed question count, and keep an eye on the clock without checking it after every item. If a break is offered, confirm the rules and use it briefly to reset. If a technical problem occurs, stop and notify the proctor or provider immediately.
Note any topics that felt weak while they are fresh, for future study or recertification. Follow the provider's stated timeline for score reporting and keep your confirmation documents. Do not attempt to record or share exam content.
Rules to check
Bring the original, unexpired ID in your registered name. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether a second form is required; do not rely on expired, photocopied, or digital ID.
Follow all instructions from the test center staff or proctor. If a rule is unclear, ask before the exam starts rather than assuming. Confirm with the provider for anything not stated in your admission materials.
Do not bring unauthorized materials into the testing area. Phones, watches, notes, and other electronics typically must be stored or silenced; confirm the provider's permitted-items list in advance.
Breaks are governed by the provider's rules. Confirm whether breaks are scheduled or optional, whether the clock stops, and what you may access during a break before test day.
Scoring and pass/fail decisions are set by the provider. Confirm the passing standard, score reporting timeline, and any retake policy in the official candidate handbook rather than relying on secondhand reports.
Report any technical failure, interruption, or suspected irregularity to the proctor or provider immediately and follow their documentation process. Do not attempt to resolve it silently.
Maintain exam integrity: do not copy, photograph, record, or discuss live exam content. Candidate agreements typically prohibit sharing questions, and violations can affect your result.
If illness, a scheduling conflict, or an emergency arises, contact the provider as early as possible to understand your options. Rescheduling and refund terms vary and should be confirmed with the provider.