Proctored Online Test Guide for Candidates

Proctoring Guide

Proctored Online Test Guide for Candidates

If the department you are applying with requires a proctored online test, it is critical that you review our free Proctored Online Test Guide for Candidates well before your scheduled test date. This downloadable PDF provides detailed instructions, system requirements, and essential tips to ensure you are fully prepared. Careful preparation in advance is the key to avoiding delays or disqualification and to ensuring a smooth, successful testing experience. Download the guide today for a problem-free testing experience.

FPSI Proctored Online Test Instructions

Before Test Day

  • Read all information provided by the department and FPSI.
  • Perform the required system check before test day to confirm your equipment and software function properly.

System Requirements:

  • Device: Windows 10+ or latest MacOS (laptop/desktop only; no Chromebooks, tablets, or phones).
  • RAM: Minimum 4 GB.
  • Browser: Latest version of Google Chrome (check at chrome://settings/help).
  • Internet: Minimum 5 Mbps wired or wireless connection (test speed at https://fiber.google.com/speedtest/).
  • Webcam & Microphone: Internal or external; webcam minimum resolution 640×480.
  • Screen Sharing: Entire screen must be shared for entire test.
  • Graphics Acceleration: Enabled in Chrome: (chrome://settings/?search=graphics).

Receiving Test Access:

Practice Checks:

Test Day Rules

Identification & Setup:

  • Present valid ID matching your test registration name.
  • Face scan required during setup (follow audio instructions in platform).
  • Only one monitor allowed.
  • Turn off automatic updates and scans.

Environment:

  • Take the test alone in a quiet, well-lit room.
  • No other people, faces, or images in view (including on clothing or the wall behind you).
  • No talking during the test.

Allowed/Not Allowed:

  • Allowed: Scratch paper (specific sections only; discard afterward).
  • Not Allowed: Calculators, phones, notes, or study materials.

During the Test:

  • Keep your webcam, microphone, and screenshare on at all times.
  • Do not navigate away from the test screen—this may result in disqualification.
  • Answer every question.
  • Unanswered questions are scored as incorrect.
  • Time limit: 2.5 or 3 hours, depending on the department. No pauses or restarts.

If Technical Issues Occur


  • Check your internet connection first.
  • Ensure Chrome is updated to the latest version.
  • Allow all images and pop-ups in browser settings.

Helpful Tips:

  • If ID capture fails, tape your ID to white sheet of paper.
  • Sit directly in front of the camera for the face snapshot.
  • Keep your face visible, well-lit, and centered.
  • Take the test alone in a quiet location and avoid background noise, images and people.
  • No talking during the test.
  • Watch the Remote Proctoring Video for more guidance.

Support Contact:

Email: help@fpsi.com

Support Hours on Test Day: 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. PST

Do not contact support for test results.

MacOS 14/15 and Google Chrome Requirements


Minimum System Requirements:

  • MacBook or iMac running MacOS 14 or 15 with 4 GB RAM minimum.
  • Latest Google Chrome browser.
  • Internet: 5 Mbps upload/download minimum.
  • Camera and Microphone: Required; instructions below.
  • Display: Screenshare; only one monitor.

Enable Camera Access:

  • System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera.
  • Unlock the lock icon if needed.
  • Turn on camera access for Google Chrome.
  • Check Screen Time settings to ensure the camera is not restricted.
  • Restart Chrome.

Test the Camera:

  • Open Finder → Applications → Photo Booth.
  • If you see your image, your camera is working.

Enable Microphone Access:

  • System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone.
  • Unlock if needed and turn on access for Chrome.
  • Check Screen Time restrictions.
  • Restart Chrome.

Enable Screen Sharing:

  • System Settings → General → Sharing → Enable “Screen Sharing.”
  • When prompted by Chrome, select Entire Screen and click Share.

Windows 10/11 and Google Chrome Requirements


Minimum System Requirements:

  • Windows 10 or 11 (fully updated).
  • Latest Google Chrome browser.
  • Internet: 5 Mbps upload/download minimum.
  • Camera and Microphone: Required; instructions below.
  • Display: Screenshare; only one monitor.

Enable Camera Access:

  • Start → Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera.
  • Turn on access for device, apps, and desktop apps.
  • Restart Chrome after changes.

Test the Camera:

  • Open the Camera app from the Start menu.
  • Confirm video preview appears.

Enable Microphone Access:

  • Start → Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone.
  • Turn on access for device, apps, and desktop apps.
  • Restart Chrome.

Enable Screen Sharing:

  • Windows 11: Settings → Privacy & Security → Screen Capture → Allow apps.
  • Windows 10: Allow “Entire Screen” when prompted by Chrome.