Everything You Need to Know Before Taking Your NABCEP Exam

Pre-exam jitters are real and completely normal, especially when you’re about to take a challenging certification exam you’ve spent months – or even years – preparing for. Being well-prepared means understanding exactly what to expect on testing day. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to show up confident and prepared for your NABCEP exam, from logistics to smart test-taking strategies.

Choosing Your Testing Format: In-Person or Remote

One of the first decisions you’ll make is how you want to take your exam. NABCEP offers two convenient options:

Computer-Based Testing (CBT) at a Testing Center Take your exam at one of Meazure Learning’s 1,400+ testing centers across 110 countries. You can see all their test site cities here.

Live Remote Proctoring (LRP) from Home or Office Prefer to test from the comfort of your own space? Remote proctoring lets you take your NABCEP exam from any location using your personal computer. You’ll need a quiet space with a working webcam and microphone. Tablets and smartphones aren’t permitted.

What to Expect with Remote Proctoring

If you choose the remote option, here’s how it works: An exam proctor will connect to your computer and will have complete access to monitor for any unauthorized activities. You’ll give the proctor a virtual tour of your testing environment to confirm there aren’t any additional books, papers, or materials that could provide an unfair advantage. The entire session is recorded and stored for 15 days to maintain exam integrity.

The #1 Non-Negotiable → Your Photo ID

No matter which testing format you choose, you’ll need a valid government-issued photo ID. The name on your ID must exactly match the name on your NABCEP application. Expired IDs won’t be accepted, and if you can’t produce proper identification, you won’t be able to take the exam and you’ll forfeit your full exam fee.

Acceptable forms of ID include:

• Driver’s license
• State-issued photo identification card
• Passport
• Military identification card

Before you schedule your exam, double-check your ID’s expiration date. It’s a simple step that can save you major headaches on test day.

What Materials Are Provided (and What You Can Bring)

The materials you’ll have access to depend on which NABCEP exam you’re taking.

For PVIP, PVDS, PVIS, PVCMS, and PVSI exams: An electronic version of the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) will be provided at the testing center. If you prefer, you can bring your own paper copy of any version of the NEC – though keep in mind current exams are based on the 2017 edition.

For the ESIP exam: You’ll need to bring your own physical copies of:

• NEC (exam based on 2020 edition)
• NFPA 70E (based on 2021 edition)
• NFPA 855 (based on 2020 edition)

Any year or edition is allowed, but no digital versions will be provided.

Important rules to keep in mind regarding your books:

• Highlighting is the ONLY permitted way to mark up your books before the exam
• No handwritten notes
• No moveable or permanent tabs
• No sticky notes or added materials
• No photocopied versions

For all computer-based exams: A basic scientific calculator will be available on-screen. Personal calculators are not allowed.

Smart Test-Taking Strategies 

Now that you know what to bring, let’s talk strategy. NABCEP shares these tips in their Certification Handbook and they can help you demonstrate everything you’ve learned while boosting your chances of passing.

Answer Every Single Question

There’s no penalty for guessing on NABCEP exams. Every blank answer is counted as incorrect, so make sure you record an answer for every question – even if you’re not 100% confident. Something is always better than nothing.

Use the Mark and Return Strategy

Stuck on a tough question? Flag it in your exam and move on. You can come back to it later with fresh eyes. Don’t let one difficult question eat up time you could use on questions you know.

Watch Your Pace

Periodically check your progress throughout the exam. The more questions you complete, the better your chances of reaching a passing score. Don’t spend too much time on any single question.

Read Instructions Carefully

It sounds basic, but taking a moment to fully understand what each question is asking can prevent simple mistakes that cost you points.

You’ve Got This!

Taking a NABCEP certification exam is a big deal. Just being eligible to sit for the exam means you’ve already put in serious work – completing extensive training requirements and accumulating (and documenting) real-world experience in the field. You’ve already proven your commitment. Now, by knowing what to expect, showing up with the right materials, and using smart test-taking strategies, you’re one step closer to success.

Have Questions About NABCEP Certifications?

Reach out to us at NABCEP@HeatSpring.com and we’ll help you find the answers!