LA Court Reporter exam-day guide
LA Court Reporter · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring an unexpired driver's license, state ID, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. The name must match your registration exactly. Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and whether a second ID is required.
Admission or scheduling confirmation
Print or save to your phone the email or letter showing your test date, time, location (or remote link), and any candidate ID number. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required.
Test-day instructions from the provider
Review the provider's current candidate handbook or information bulletin for site-specific rules on what may be brought into the testing room, security screening, and prohibited items. Policies change, so confirm with the provider rather than relying on older accounts.
Steno machine and required accessories
If the exam requires you to use your own stenographic machine, bring it with a tested power supply, cables, and any permitted accessories. Confirm with the provider whether a backup machine is allowed and whether the site supplies equipment.
Laptop and software, if the exam is computer-based
Bring the laptop and any approved software exactly as specified by the provider, fully charged and updated. Confirm with the provider whether personal laptops are permitted or whether the testing center supplies computers.
Transcript materials permitted by the provider
If the exam includes a transcript-production component, bring only the reference materials the provider explicitly allows, such as a dictionary or style guide. Confirm with the provider which references are permitted and whether they must be printed or may be digital.
Watch or timing device
A simple watch can help you track pacing if the room clock is not visible. Confirm with the provider whether watches are allowed and whether smartwatches are prohibited.
Water and a light snack for breaks
Bring water and a snack only if the provider permits them in the waiting area or during scheduled breaks. Confirm with the provider where food and drink may be consumed.
Directions, parking, and arrival plan
Plan your route and arrival time in advance. Aim to arrive early enough to complete check-in and security without rushing. Confirm with the provider the recommended arrival time and the consequences of late arrival.
Rest and logistics the night before
Set two alarms, charge devices, and lay out your ID, confirmation, and equipment the night before. Sleep is part of preparation; avoid last-minute cramming that leaves you fatigued.
Emergency contact and provider phone number
Save the provider's contact number in case of illness, transportation failure, or a site change. Confirm with the provider how to report an emergency on test day.
Review of scoring and retake policy
Know how each section is scored, what passing requires, and when results are released. Confirm with the provider the current scoring thresholds and retake rules, since these are set by the provider and can change.
Plan the day
Re-read the provider's candidate information bulletin and verify every logistical detail: test date, time, location or remote link, ID requirements, permitted equipment, and prohibited items. Confirm with the provider any point that is unclear. Do one final full-length timed practice run under exam-like conditions, then stop heavy practice and focus on reviewing your own error patterns. Prepare your equipment, charge batteries, and test any software you will use.
Pack your bag with ID, confirmation, equipment, and permitted materials. Check the weather and traffic forecasts and confirm your route. Avoid learning new material; instead, review a short list of reminders and pacing targets. Eat a normal meal, limit caffeine and alcohol, and go to bed at a reasonable hour. Confirm with the provider the recommended arrival time and check-in process.
Eat a normal breakfast and arrive at the site or log in early as instructed. Bring only permitted items; leave prohibited items such as phones, smartwatches, and notes in your car or at home unless the provider says otherwise. Complete ID check and security calmly. Use the restroom before the exam begins. Take a few minutes to settle your breathing and review your pacing plan.
Follow the proctor's instructions exactly. Read each section's directions before starting and note the time limit. Pace yourself: if a passage or question is taking too long, mark it and move on if the format allows. For skills sections, prioritize accuracy and consistent rhythm over speed. Use scheduled breaks only as permitted, and return promptly. If equipment fails, raise your hand and notify the proctor immediately rather than trying to fix it silently.
Rules to check
Bring valid government-issued photo ID with a name matching your registration. If your ID name differs from your registration, contact the provider before test day to correct it.
Follow all proctor instructions and site security procedures. Prohibited items, including phones, smartwatches, and unauthorized notes, must be stored as directed; possession during the exam may lead to dismissal.
Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam and do not share or copy exam content. Exam materials are confidential, and misconduct can result in score cancellation.
Breaks are generally available only as scheduled or with proctor permission. Confirm with the provider the break policy, whether unscheduled breaks are allowed, and whether the clock stops during breaks.
Scoring rules, passing thresholds, and score-report timing are set by the provider. Confirm with the provider the current scoring method for each section and how partial credit, if any, is handled.
If you arrive late or cannot attend, contact the provider immediately. Late arrival and absence policies, including whether fees are refunded or a retake is allowed, are determined by the provider; confirm the specifics in advance.
Use only equipment and reference materials the provider has approved. If you are unsure whether an item is permitted, ask the provider before test day rather than risk a violation.
Report any equipment malfunction or testing irregularity to the proctor at once. Do not attempt to troubleshoot on your own in a way that could be seen as unauthorized behavior.