Online Proctoring

Before exam day

• Complete the System Check using the same computer and in the same location you'll be using on exam day. It may be helpful to take the System Check before registering to make sure your equipment is compatible with the exam software.
• Click here to review the Technical Requirements document to ensure you qualify for online proctoring.
• Please click here to watch a video from Pearson VUE regarding the check-in process.

On exam day

• Prepare your testing space: desk cleared, door closed and webcam/microphone functioning.
• Make sure you are using the same computer you used to complete the System Check.
• Use a hardwired internet connection (such as Ethernet) instead of Wi-Fi to improve connectivity.
• Sign into your exam 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam to allow for any troubleshooting.
• To sign in, go to the ACAMS Website and click on “Go to Pearson VUE.”  Select the appropriate exam and click “Begin Exam.”
• You’ll need to present a valid ID during the check in process.
• Your cellphone should remain in the room where you are testing, out of reach and on silent, but accessible in the event you need assistance, or a proctor needs to reach you.
• You may NOT do the following during your exam:
•  
  • Leave the view of the camera.
  • Leave the room.
  • Take a restroom break.
  • Read aloud or mouth the words.
  • Use multiple monitors.
  • Use a headset, headphones or watch.
  • Have a desk calendar present.
  • Allow a third party into your room.
  • Eat, drink (other than water in a clear glass), smoke, chew gum.
  • Use writing instruments, scratch paper, or take or refer to physical notes.

Need help? Pearson VUE staff are available to assist you via chat. You may also click here to access a Reconnection Guide for tips. Support for online proctoring is only available in English.

The Pearson VUE online proctoring system, OnVUE, has a user interface that is available only in English and any support during the check-in process or during the exam will only be in English.  Once the exam is launched, it will be in the language of the ACAMS exam package you purchased.

Candidates who do not speak English can use online proctoring but must prepare themselves well in advance. It is very important that all candidates taking an exam using online proctoring familiarize themselves with the process and the requirements.  You are highly recommended to carefully review all materials and FAQs provided in order to ensure a successful online exam experience.  Failure to do so may result in the inability to deliver your exam when scheduled and you will forfeit your exam fee.
 

Online exams are not available for candidates located in mainland China, Japan, Cuba, Iran, North Korea Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic (Syria), and the Sevastapol/Crimea region of Ukraine.

For others, make sure that you can answer yes to the five questions below. Then move on to the System Check. In order to take an ACAMS certification exam via online proctoring you must perform and pass the System Check on the computer you plan to use to take the exam.

If any of these are restrictions are violated, your exam delivery will be ended, and the score will be cancelled.
 

If you fail to answer Yes to the five questions above, you may be unable to or possibly ineligible to take your exam online.

1. Do you have a laptop or desktop computer?

• Pearson VUE online proctoring is not compatible with a tablet (i.e., iPad, Surface, Kindle) or mobile device.
   

2. Do you have a web camera and microphone?

• The webcam may be built into your computer or may be a separate device that is connected to the computer. 
  • If using a laptop that has a webcam built in, and you are also connected to an external monitor, you must use the laptop screen and not the external monitor. You should turn off the external monitor during testing.
  • If your laptop does not have a webcam, you must have a webcam that is a separate device connected to the computer. In this case, the laptop must remain shut and you should use the external monitor, as two monitors are not allowed.
• The microphone may be built into the computer or may be a separate device that is connected to the computer. The microphone should be on and not set on mute.
   

3. Do you have reliable internet?

• You should have a reliable, broadband internet connection (DSL, cable, or LAN/WAN): 512 kbps up/down. Dial-up connections are not supported. Wired networks are recommended due to a better exam delivery performance. If you choose to use a WIFI connection, you may experience connection issues. It is highly recommended you utilize an ethernet cord connection for your examination.
   

4. Do you have a private, enclosed space that is free from disruptions?

• During your testing session, no third party can be walking behind you within the view of the webcam (e.g., in an office with windows to a hallway).
• During your testing session no third party is allowed in the room.
• During your testing session no third party can be heard.

5. Does your laptop, webcam or smartphone camera allow you to take photos of your testing area?

• With your laptop, external webcam or smartphone camera, you will be asked to send photos showing both left and right of your testing area, as well as the ceiling above and floor below your testing area

You must complete the System Test to see if your computer is compatible with the online testing software. The System Test downloads an executable file onto your computer, and it walks you through a check of the computer and necessary equipment for taking the exam online.

Please make sure that you perform the System Test from the same computer and location you will be testing from on exam day.

Your computer must meet the following requirements to pass the system check:

• Operating system of Windows 8 or newer, or newest MAC OS for Apple computers.
• The newest versions of Microsoft Edge, Safari, Chrome, and Firefox, or Internet Explorer 11
• Internet cookies must be enabled.
• All pop-up blockers must be disabled.

Please also review the Technical Requirements document for more detailed information.

Run my System Test now.

If you have an issue running the System Test, ask yourself these questions:

• Can you update your operating system or web browser to the newest version?
• Do you have administrator rights on your computer? If you are using a work computer, and you are not an administrator, you may be unable to remove firewalls.
• Can you try an alternate computer such as your personal computer?
• Do you have antivirus, security software or screen capture on your computer?
  • Some programs can cause performance issues during the exam. These programs should be temporarily disabled before taking your exam.

If you still do not pass the System Test, you are ineligible to take your exam online. You should reschedule your appointment to take the exam at a Pearson VUE test center. If your computer is found not to meet the requirements on the exam day, you will not be able to take the exam and you will forfeit your exam fee.

Please click here for the steps to switch your exam delivery method.

Online proctoring is available to all candidates except those located in mainland China, Japan, Cuba, Iran, North Korea Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic (Syria), and the Sevastapol/Crimea region of Ukraine.  Candidates must be able to meet the necessary technical and room environment requirements. Click here for more information.

*If you have a disability as defined under local or applicable law, please contact our Accommodations Coordinator at accommodations@acams.org for a request form and information regarding our accommodation process. Please also reference the Candidate Handbook for additional information.

Online proctoring is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

The scheduling process for an online exam is very similar to scheduling an exam at a test center.  Once approved to test, sign in to the ACAMS Website, and click on the exam that you have purchased.

You will then be given the option to test at a center or at your “Home or Office.”  Select “Home or Office” and begin the scheduling process for an online exam.

If you already have your exam scheduled at a Test Center, please click here for instructions to change your exam to online proctoring.

Yes, however at this time, online proctoring is not available to candidates located in Belarus, China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Sudan, Syrian Arab Republic (Syria) and the Donbas/Sevastapol/Crimea region of Ukraine.

Yes. However, candidates typically have more success when testing on personal computers rather than on their work computers. This is because work computers are more likely to have firewalls, VPNs, and other security policies that may block video streaming of the candidate. The link to these requirements can be found here.

The scheduling process for an online exam is very similar to scheduling an exam at a test center.  Once given the approval to proceed, sign in to the ACAMS Website, and click on the exam you want to schedule.

Once at the Delivery Option page of the Pearson VUE website, after selecting “Online Proctored Exam” you will have the option to choose “Home or Office”. Once selected, you may begin the scheduling process for an online exam.

Yes. You can cancel your exam 72 hours before your exam date without penalties. If within 72 hours of your exam date, review Pearson VUE’s current cancellation policy. Please click here for instructions to change your exam from test center to online proctoring.

Yes. You may schedule an online proctored exam by signing in to the ACAMS Website and click on the exam you wish to schedule.

Once at the Delivery Option page of the Pearson VUE website, after selecting “Online Proctored Exam” you will have the option to choose “Home or Office”. Once selected, you may begin the scheduling process for an online exam.

As you will see in this video you may need to make some adjustments to your computer set-up prior to taking the exam.

Ask yourself the following questions to ensure your computer set-up is optimal:

1. Is the text size of your screen set to the recommended 100%?

• Some operating systems set the default text to larger than 100%.
• You can reset the text size in the display section of the control panel before taking your exam.

2. Do you use a laptop computer with an external monitor?

• Only one screen is allowed while taking your exam. If using a laptop that has a webcam built in, and you are also connected to an external monitor, you must use the laptop screen and not the external monitor. You should turn off the external monitor during testing.
• If your laptop does not have a webcam, you must have a webcam that is a separate device connected to the computer. In this case, the laptop must remain shut and you should use the external monitor, as two monitors are not allowed.

3. Do you use more than one external monitor?

• Only one monitor is allowed while taking your exam.
• If you use 2 or more monitors, you must make sure that only one monitor is on and connected to your computer on exam day.

4. Do you use a headset?

• Headsets are acceptable during the greet process to communicate with the greeter, but they must be removed and placed to the side during the exam.

5. Is the testing area you chose a private, secure space with a door?

• Headsets are acceptable during the greet process to communicate with the greeter, but they must be removed and placed to the side during the exam.
• No third party is allowed in the room for the duration of your testing session. No third party can walk behind you within view of the webcam (e.g., in an office with windows to a hallway). No third party can be heard during testing. If a third party is identified in the room, your exam delivery will be ended, and the score will be cancelled.

6. Is your testing area free of any voice-activated devices (e.g. Amazon Echo, Google Home, etc.)?

• Any of these devices should be turned off or removed from the testing area for the duration of the exam.

7. Is your testing space (e.g. desk, table) clear?

• The following items are not allowed within arm's reach: books, note pads, Post-it notes, typed notes/papers, or writing instruments.
• All objects not necessary for your testing session should be placed out of arm’s reach.

We understand that distractions may occur during the exam. Some suggestions for limiting your distractions include:

• Arranging for coverage.
• Disconnecting, or muting your landline phone.
• Placing a “do not disturb” sign on your door.

If your location does not meet these requirements, please reschedule your appointment to take the exam at a Pearson VUE test center. If your location is found not to meet the requirements on exam day, you will not receive a refund.

Your mobile phone should remain in the room where you are testing, on silent, but out of reach and accessible in the event you need assistance, or a proctor needs to reach you. We recommend you place the phone on vibrate mode. 

You may begin your exam process up to 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. Not any earlier. You have up to 15 minutes after your scheduled appointment time to sign in to your ACAMS Website. Click on “Go to Pearson VUE.”  On the Pearson VUE site, click on the name of the exam you will be taking.  Then click “Begin Exam" to launch the exam. 

You are not permitted to begin your exam more than 15 minutes after your scheduled appointment time. If that occurs, you must forfeit registration for that appointment, and you will need to register and pay for your next exam. You may contact ACAMS to discuss your rescheduling options.

Sign in to your ACAMS Website. Click on “Go to Pearson VUE.”  On the Pearson VUE suite, click on the name of the exam you will be taking.  Then click “Begin Exam" to launch the exam. 

An abbreviated system check is performed during the check-in process to verify that the microphone is working, there is an internet connection, and the webcam can stream video. This differs from the full setup test that candidates should run before scheduling the exam.

You will need to present primary identification when prompted during the check-in process. Candidates without valid primary ID may not be admitted to the exam.

Primary ID: A current, non-expired government-issued form of ID that contains both your signature and a recent photograph. A valid driver's license, passport or state identification card is acceptable. 

Note: Any form of ID issued by the following governments cannot be used as a primary ID, per U.S. government regulations: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, and Syria.

You will be asked to take a headshot of yourself and your primary ID using your laptop, webcam or smartphone camera. Pearson Vue will verify that the photo on the ID matches the photo of you before you can start your exam.

Important: The name that appears on your primary ID must be the same as the name that ACAMS has on record for you or you may not be admitted to the exam.

For additional information please go to: https://www.pearsonvue.com/content/dam/VUE/vue/global/documents/global-id-policy/Pearson-VUE-ID-Policies-1S-English.pdf

• Eyeglasses (Pearson VUE will ask to check them)
• Water in a clear glass or bottle.
• Certain essential medical items (e.g., Bluetooth-enabled glucose monitoring devices and diabetic supplies) may be brought into the testing area with prior approval of ACAMS. You should submit your request to ACAMS by sending an email to accommodations@acams.org.

To assure the integrity of the exam and your credential, the following are prohibited:

• Electronic devices, including cameras, recording devices, PDAs, calculators and pagers.
• Your cellphone should remain in the room where you are testing, out of reach and on silent, but accessible in the event you need assistance, or a proctor needs to reach you.
• Wallets and purses.
• Watches. The time remaining in the exam session will be displayed on your computer screen.
• Study materials, books, notes, scratch paper, etc.
• Pens, pencils, highlighters and other writing instruments.
• Use of multiple monitors
• Headset or headphones.
• Reminder: No third party can enter the room during your exam, and you may not allow the computer screen to be seen by other individuals.

Candidates who fail to adhere to these policies are subject to disciplinary action which could lead to dismissal from the exam, invalidation of the exam or disqualification from future exams.

Calculators can be made available directly in exam items. For exams delivered on Athena — Browser Edition, the built-in calculator is available in three modes: standard, scientific, and graphing. Exams delivered on the ITS driver can have either a standard or a scientific calculator.

If candidates typically need scratch paper during an exam, a built-in whiteboard feature in the OnVUE software can be made available for candidates. For information about this feature and to try using it, see the publicly available whiteboard demo.

Depending on the certification you have chosen, the exam can take up to 3 ½ hours. Please refer to the Candidate Handbook for details regarding specific exams.

Once the online exam is launched, no breaks are allowed as you will not be permitted to leave the view of the web camera.

No. Once the online exam is launched, no breaks are allowed as you will not be permitted to leave the view of the web camera. 

*If you have a disability as defined under local or applicable law, please contact our Accommodations Coordinator at accommodations@acams.org for a request form and information regarding our accommodation process. Please also reference the Candidate Handbook for additional information.

If there is an issue during exam delivery, you can use the blue phone button in the recording window to request assistance.

If you get disconnected from the internet, inadvertently close your exam, or something similar that drops the connection, you will have up to one hour to resume the test, not to exceed four hours from the original start time. You must resume the test on the same workstation and cannot move to a new computer. A page will automatically pop-up saying "Alert! The exam has unexpectedly shut down. You may return to your exam by relaunching." Click the "Relaunch" button to resume.

Please click here to review the Reconnection Guide for additional support and tips.

If for some reason you are not allowed back into the exam, please contact Pearson VUE Customer Support and an agent will assist you