ICA TBML Specialist Cert exam-day guide
ICA TBML Specialist Cert · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original ID in the name used on your registration. Confirm with the provider which ID types are accepted and whether a secondary ID is required.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have the confirmation email or booking reference available, whether you test in person or remotely.
Provider-specific login or candidate credentials
If testing remotely, verify your account login and any launch code works before exam day. Confirm the exact process with the provider.
Reliable computer and stable internet (remote testing)
Run the provider's system or equipment check in advance. Confirm minimum bandwidth and browser requirements with the provider.
Working webcam and microphone (remote testing)
Required for identity verification and proctoring in most remote setups. Confirm device requirements with the provider.
Quiet, private, well-lit room (remote testing)
Clear your desk of notes, phones, and unauthorized materials. Confirm the provider's room and desk rules in advance.
Permitted reference materials
Most certification exams are closed-book. Do not assume any materials are allowed; confirm the permitted-items policy with the provider.
Water in a clear container and any permitted comfort items
Policies on drinks and personal items vary. Confirm what is allowed with the provider.
Plan for breaks and timing
Know the total seat time and whether scheduled or unscheduled breaks are offered. Confirm the break policy with the provider.
Review key trade-based money laundering concepts
Refresh core topics such as trade mispricing, over- and under-invoicing, phantom shipments, carousel transactions, and red-flag indicators. Use your own study notes.
Backup plan for technical failure
Note the provider's support contact and rebooking process. Confirm the technical-issue policy with the provider.
Arrive or log in early
Allow buffer time for check-in and identity verification. Confirm the required arrival or login window with the provider.
Plan the day
Confirm your appointment date, time, time zone, and delivery format. Re-read the provider's candidate handbook for ID, materials, and conduct rules.
If testing remotely, complete the system/equipment test and resolve any issues. If testing in person, confirm the test center location, parking, and travel time.
Do a final review of weak topic areas using your own notes: trade finance instruments, red flags, and typologies. Avoid cramming new material.
Prepare your ID and confirmation documents in one place. Charge devices and test your webcam, microphone, and connection again if remote.
Get a full night's sleep. Protect your rest rather than studying late.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate, and avoid last-minute cramming. Log in or arrive with buffer time for check-in.
Clear your workspace and silence devices. Keep only permitted items within reach.
Read each question fully, watch for qualifiers like 'most likely' or 'except', and flag uncertain items to revisit if the platform allows.
Pace yourself against the clock, leaving time to review flagged questions. Answer every question unless the scoring penalizes guessing; confirm the scoring rule with the provider.
If a technical issue occurs, pause and contact the proctor or support immediately rather than troubleshooting alone.
Rules to check
Present valid government-issued photo ID matching your registration name; confirm accepted ID types with the provider.
Follow all proctor instructions and the provider's code of conduct; unauthorized materials or assistance are prohibited.
Do not communicate with others, use unauthorized devices, or leave the camera view during remote testing unless instructed.
Keep your workspace clear and remain in view; confirm the specific room and desk rules with the provider.
Breaks, if any, are governed by the provider's policy; confirm whether unscheduled breaks are allowed and how they affect your time.
Scoring and the passing standard are set by the provider; confirm the pass mark, score report timing, and any retake policy with the provider.
Report any technical problems or suspected irregularities to the proctor or support immediately.
Results and any confidentiality obligations regarding exam content are governed by the provider's candidate agreement; confirm the terms with the provider.