NABCEP SHI exam-day guide
NABCEP SHI · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring an original, unexpired ID with your photo and signature; the name must match your registration exactly. Confirm accepted ID types, such as driver’s license or passport, with NABCEP or the testing vendor before exam day. needs_review: accepted forms vary by provider.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have your confirmation number, test date and time, and testing center address available. Confirm whether a printed copy is required or a digital copy is acceptable. needs_review: provider-specific requirement.
Testing center location and arrival plan
Confirm the address, parking options, and public transit routes; do a dry run if possible. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. needs_review: exact arrival cutoff and late-entry policy vary by provider.
Approved calculator
Confirm whether the exam provides an on-screen calculator or allows a physical non-programmable calculator. If a physical calculator is allowed, bring only an approved model; graphing and programmable calculators are typically prohibited. needs_review: calculator policy.
Closed-book policy confirmed
NABCEP exams are generally closed-book; do not bring notes, textbooks, or reference sheets into the testing room. Confirm any exceptions or permitted reference materials with the provider. needs_review: policy may change.
Personal item storage plan
Leave valuables at home. Most testing centers provide lockers for phones, wallets, and bags; confirm locker availability and size. needs_review: not all centers have lockers.
Comfort and break supplies
Bring layers for variable room temperature. If breaks are allowed, confirm whether water or snacks can be accessed during breaks; do not bring food or drink into the testing room unless approved. needs_review: break policy.
Accommodations request, if applicable
If you need ADA or other accommodations, confirm that your request was approved well before exam day. Bring any approval documentation as instructed. needs_review: provider-specific process and deadlines.
Last-minute review sheet kept outside the test room
Prepare a one-page summary of key solar heating formulas, safety checks, and code references to review before entering. Leave it in your car or locker; it cannot enter the testing room. needs_review: ensure no prohibited materials are brought inside.
Phone and smart devices powered off
Power off your phone and any smart devices before entering the testing area. Confirm where to store them; unauthorized device use or possession may void your score. needs_review: exact storage and device policy.
Plan the day
Confirm your appointment, ID requirements, testing center address, and calculator and break policies with NABCEP or the testing vendor. Review the exam blueprint and your weakest topics; do one short practice set. Prepare clothing and a transportation plan. Prioritize sleep.
Pack your ID, confirmation, and approved calculator; set out clothes. Do a light review of key formulas and safety procedures only. Avoid cramming new material. Confirm your alarm and backup transport. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep.
Eat a normal meal and hydrate. Arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes early. Leave your phone and notes in the car or locker. Present your ID and confirmation; follow proctor instructions. Do not study new material in the waiting room.
Read each question fully and watch for words like “not” and “except.” Answer easier questions first, flag difficult ones, and return if time permits. Use scratch paper only if provided. Take scheduled breaks if allowed; remember the clock may not stop. Review flagged questions before submitting.
Rules to check
Bring valid government-issued photo ID; the name must match your registration exactly. Confirm accepted ID forms with the provider before exam day.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment. Late arrivals may be denied entry or forfeit the exam fee; confirm the exact cutoff with the provider.
The exam is closed-book. Do not bring notes, books, or unauthorized reference materials into the testing room. Confirm any permitted items with the provider.
Power off phones and smart devices and store them as directed. Unauthorized device use or possession may result in score cancellation.
Breaks: confirm the provider’s break policy. Scheduled breaks may be available, but unscheduled breaks may not stop the exam timer; leave the testing room only with proctor permission.
Scoring: NABCEP exams are criterion-referenced and reported as pass or fail. Do not assume a specific passing score or guessing penalty; confirm scoring details with NABCEP. Answer every question unless the provider states otherwise.
Follow all proctor instructions. Misconduct, attempting to remove exam content, or disruptive behavior can void your score and may affect future eligibility.
This guide is independent and not affiliated with NABCEP. Verify all logistics, ID, calculator, and break policies directly with NABCEP or its testing vendor.