InterNACHI CPI exam-day guide
InterNACHI CPI · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring a current, unexpired photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. If you are testing remotely, have it ready to hold up to the camera. Confirm with the provider which ID forms are accepted before test day.
Exam confirmation and login credentials
Have your scheduling confirmation, candidate/registration number, and any username or password needed to start the exam, whether in person or online.
Know the exam format and time limit
Confirm with the provider the current number of questions, time allowance, passing score, and whether it is open- or closed-book before you sit down.
Confirm whether any reference materials are permitted
Some exams allow certain codes or reference sheets and others do not. Confirm with the provider what, if anything, you may bring or access, and do not assume.
Quiet, private, well-lit testing space (remote exams)
If testing online, use a distraction-free room with a stable internet connection, a working webcam and microphone, and adequate lighting. Confirm with the provider the specific proctoring requirements.
Test your computer and connection (remote exams)
Run any system or equipment check the provider offers at least a day ahead, and again the morning of the exam. Have a backup plan such as a phone hotspot or a phone number for support.
Directions, arrival time, and parking (in-person exams)
Know the test center location and arrive early. Confirm with the provider the required arrival time and late-arrival policy.
Comfort items allowed by the provider
Water, a light snack, and layers are helpful where permitted. Confirm with the provider what is allowed into the testing room; many centers restrict food, drinks, and personal items.
Plan for scratch materials
Many providers supply scratch paper or an on-screen notepad and prohibit bringing your own. Confirm with the provider rather than bringing loose paper.
Review logistics for breaks
Know in advance whether breaks are permitted, whether the clock stops, and whether you must remain under supervision. Confirm with the provider.
Backup contact for the provider
Save the provider's support or scheduling phone number and email in case of technical problems or a scheduling question on test day.
A calm, rested plan
Get normal sleep, eat a light meal beforehand, and arrive mentally ready. Avoid last-minute cramming that increases anxiety.
Plan the day
Confirm your appointment date, time, location or remote link, and ID requirements with the provider. Re-read the provider's candidate handbook or testing rules so nothing surprises you on the day.
Do a final review focused on weak areas using your own notes and study materials. Take one or two short practice sets to check pacing rather than learning brand-new material.
Gather everything on the checklist in one place: ID, confirmation, credentials, and any permitted items. For remote exams, run the system and equipment check.
Stop heavy studying. Skim summary notes only. Confirm travel time or the remote testing setup, charge devices, and check the internet connection.
Prepare clothes, ID, and permitted items. Set two alarms. Get a full night's sleep; avoid alcohol and late caffeine.
Eat a light, normal meal and hydrate. Avoid cramming new material. Arrive at the test center early or log in to the remote session early as instructed.
Re-run the equipment check if testing remotely, and have the provider's support number handy in case of technical trouble.
Read each question fully and watch for words like 'not', 'except', and 'best'. Answer the easy questions first if the platform allows navigation, then return to harder ones.
Budget your time: note the total minutes and question count, and keep roughly to a per-question pace. Flag uncertain items and revisit them if time allows.
Answer every question; there is usually no penalty for guessing, but confirm with the provider. Use process of elimination when unsure.
If you take a permitted break, note whether the clock keeps running. Stay within the rules and follow proctor instructions.
Note your result and any next steps the provider gives you, such as score reporting timelines or retake rules. Confirm with the provider how and when results are delivered.
Rules to check
Bring valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID; the name must match your registration. Confirm with the provider which IDs are accepted and what to do if your name differs.
Follow all proctor and testing-center instructions, including where to store personal items, phone rules, and permitted materials. Unauthorized items or devices can void your exam.
Do not communicate with others, use unauthorized references, or attempt to copy exam content. Treat the exam as confidential; misconduct can lead to score cancellation.
Confirm with the provider in advance whether the exam is open- or closed-book and which reference materials, if any, are permitted.
Confirm with the provider the rules on breaks: whether they are allowed, whether the timer stops, and whether you remain supervised.
Confirm with the provider how the exam is scored, the passing score, and whether unanswered questions count against you; answer every question unless told otherwise.
If you experience a technical problem during a remote exam, stop and contact the provider's support immediately rather than troubleshooting on your own in a way that could affect your session.
Confirm with the provider the policy on retakes, score reporting, and any waiting period before you can test again.