Taking your ATD certification exam online with OnVUE offers flexibility and convenience. To ensure a smooth and successful testing experience, it’s crucial to understand the process and requirements. This comprehensive guide answers frequently asked questions about taking your Atd Online exam, covering everything from pre-test preparations to what to expect during the exam and general policies.
Preparing for Your ATD Online Exam
Q. Where is the best place to take my ATD online exam?
For optimal performance and to maintain the integrity of your ATD online exam, you need a secure and private testing environment. This space should be enclosed and free from interruptions, with a strong and stable internet connection. Think of a quiet room where you can focus entirely on your exam.
Important Considerations for Your Testing Space:
- Privacy is Key: Ensure the room is completely private. No one should enter or pass through your testing space during the exam.
- Stable Internet: A reliable internet connection is essential for a smooth OnVUE experience.
- Avoid Public Spaces: Coffee shops, libraries, or shared offices are not suitable due to potential interruptions and security concerns.
- Bathroom Ban: Testing in bathrooms is strictly prohibited. If a bathroom is your only quiet space, please find an alternative location.
- Screen Security: Avoid testing spaces with windows or glass partitions that could allow someone else to view your screen. This is a critical security measure, and failing to comply could lead to exam revocation.
Q. How can I confirm my computer is compatible with the OnVUE software for my ATD exam?
To guarantee your system works seamlessly with the OnVUE software for your ATD online exam, follow these steps:
- Review System Requirements: First, carefully check the minimum system requirements for OnVUE. This document outlines the necessary specifications for your computer’s operating system, processor, memory, and internet speed.
- Run a System Test: Prior to your exam day, perform a system test. This crucial step involves downloading the OnVUE software and running a diagnostic check to identify any potential compatibility issues. You can usually find a link to the system test in your exam confirmation or scheduling information.
- Pre-Exam Day Check: On the day of your ATD online exam, it’s highly recommended to re-run the system test before your scheduled start time. This ensures everything is still working correctly and catches any last-minute issues.
Troubleshooting System Issues:
If you encounter any problems during the system test, the first step is to reschedule your exam through your account. If rescheduling isn’t possible or you need immediate assistance, use the chat feature within the OnVUE software or on the Pearson VUE website to contact their customer service team, specifically mentioning that you are taking an ATD online exam.
Q. What does the OnVUE system test check for my ATD online exam?
The system test for your ATD online exam thoroughly evaluates your computer’s readiness for online proctoring. Here’s a breakdown of what it checks:
- Software Download and Installation: Verifies the successful download and installation of the OnVUE application and secure browser.
- Secure Browser Launch: Ensures the secure browser can be unzipped and launched correctly. This browser is designed to provide a secure testing environment by restricting access to other applications and websites during your exam.
- Microphone, Webcam, and Speaker Functionality: Tests the functionality of your microphone, webcam, and speakers, and confirms that OnVUE has the necessary permissions to access them. These are essential for proctoring.
- Download Speed: Measures your internet download speed to ensure it meets the minimum requirements for streaming video and downloading exam content.
- Server Communication: Checks general communication between your computer and Pearson VUE servers, which is vital for delivering the exam and transmitting your responses.
- Live Video Streaming Connection: Establishes and tests a live video-streaming connection, which is how the proctor will monitor you during your ATD online exam.
Q. How do I schedule my ATD OnVUE exam?
Scheduling your ATD OnVUE exam is a straightforward process once you’ve confirmed your system compatibility. Here’s how:
- Sign into Your Account: Access your Pearson VUE account, the same account you likely used to register for your ATD exam.
- Select Your Exam: Locate and select the specific ATD exam you wish to schedule.
- Choose “Home or Office” Option: When prompted to choose a testing location, select the “home or office” option. This indicates you want to take the exam online via OnVUE.
- Follow Prompts: Follow the remaining on-screen prompts to select your preferred date and time for the exam.
- Confirmation Email: After successfully scheduling your exam, you will receive a confirmation email. This email will contain your appointment details and crucial information for your ATD online exam day, so keep it handy.
Q. How do I know if my testing space is suitable for my ATD online exam?
The ultimate decision on whether your testing space is acceptable for your ATD online exam rests with the proctor. This assessment happens during the check-in process, before your exam begins.
Room Scan and Proctor Review:
As part of the check-in, you will be required to take photos of your testing environment. These photos are then reviewed by a live proctor to ensure your space meets the security requirements.
Tips for a Successful Room Scan:
- Private and Secure: Double-check that your chosen space is private and secure from interruptions.
- Clear of Materials: Remove any study materials, notes, books, or unauthorized items from your testing area. Only authorized materials (if any, as specified by ATD) should be present and clearly visible to the proctor.
- Unplug Extra Monitors: Disconnect and turn off any additional monitors connected to your computer.
- Wall Inspection: Be aware that proctors may ask you to inspect any visible materials on your walls, such as sticky notes, whiteboards, or chalkboards. You might be asked to remove these items if they are deemed to be a security risk.
Consequences of a Failed Room Scan:
It’s crucial to prepare your testing space carefully. If your space does not pass the room scan, you will not be allowed to proceed with your ATD online exam and may forfeit your exam fees.
Q. Can I use a company-issued computer for my ATD online exam?
Yes, you can use an employer-issued computer to take your ATD online exam, but it’s generally not recommended.
Why Personal Computers are Preferred:
Test-takers often have a smoother experience using personal computers for online proctored exams. Company-issued computers are more likely to have security measures in place, such as firewalls, VPNs, and strict security policies. These can sometimes interfere with the OnVUE software and video streaming during the exam, leading to technical issues.
If You Must Use a Company Computer:
If using a company-issued computer is your only option, it’s imperative that you thoroughly review the OnVUE technical requirements document. Share this document with your IT department and ensure that your computer meets all necessary specifications and that any potential blocks are removed before your exam day.
Q. Is using a mobile hotspot for internet connection acceptable for my ATD online exam?
While technically possible, using a mobile hotspot to connect to the internet for your ATD online exam is strongly discouraged.
Reliability Concerns with Hotspots:
Hotspot technology is not as reliable or consistent as a wired or dedicated Wi-Fi connection. Fluctuations in signal strength and bandwidth can lead to disruptions during your exam, potentially causing technical issues or even exam termination.
Prioritize a Stable Connection:
For the best and most stable performance on your ATD online exam day, prioritize using a wired ethernet connection or a reliable Wi-Fi network. If you must use a hotspot, perform a system test beforehand to assess the connection stability in your testing location.
Checking In for Your ATD Online Exam
Q. How do I check in and download the OnVUE software for my ATD exam?
When it’s time to check in for your ATD online exam, you typically have two convenient options:
- Check-in Link in Email: Look for your exam confirmation, reschedule, or reminder email. These emails often contain a direct “Check-in to start exam” link. This link becomes active approximately 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time and remains active for 15 minutes past the start time.
- Login via Website: Alternatively, you can log in to your Pearson VUE account through the website (usually via a “log in” button on the Pearson VUE OnVUE page or your ATD program’s designated landing page). Once logged in, your scheduled ATD online exam should be listed under “Open Online Exams.” Select the exam link and then choose the “Check-in” option.
Software Download:
Regardless of the method you choose, the check-in process will prompt you to download and run the OnVUE online proctoring software if you haven’t already done so. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the download and installation.
Q. What if I don’t see the Check-in button for my ATD online exam?
If you are within the check-in window (30 minutes before to 15 minutes after your scheduled exam time) and you don’t see the “Check-in” button in your Pearson VUE account, here’s what to do:
- Refresh the Page: Sometimes a simple page refresh can resolve display issues. Try refreshing your browser window.
- Double-Check Login Time: Ensure you are logging in no earlier than 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time. The “Check-in” button may not appear if you are trying to log in too early.
- Contact Customer Support: If the button still doesn’t appear within 15 minutes of your exam start time, immediately contact Pearson VUE’s customer service team via the chat feature. Specify that you are checking in for an ATD online exam and are unable to locate the check-in button.
Q. What form of identification is required for my ATD online exam?
To ensure proper identification and security for your ATD online exam, you will need to present valid identification during the check-in process.
Acceptable Forms of ID:
Click the “View ID requirements” button on the Pearson VUE OnVUE information page to see a detailed list of acceptable forms of identification. Generally, this includes government-issued photo IDs such as:
- Passport
- Driver’s License
- National ID card
Important ID Requirements:
- Valid and Unexpired: Your ID must be current and not expired.
- Photo and Signature: It must contain your photograph and signature.
- Name Matching: The name on your ID must exactly match the name you used when registering for your ATD exam.
Ensure you have your valid ID ready and easily accessible before starting the check-in process for your ATD online exam.
Q. My proctor hasn’t started my ATD exam yet. Where is the proctor?
After you complete the check-in steps, including taking photos of your face, ID, and testing environment, you will see a message indicating that you are almost done with the check-in process. At this point, you are placed in a queue and will wait briefly while a proctor reviews your check-in information.
Proctor Wait Times:
Keep in mind that other candidates may be ahead of you in the queue. The OnVUE application should display your approximate position in the queue. In most cases, a proctor will launch your ATD online exam within 15 minutes of your scheduled start time.
Potential Delays and How to Respond:
If there is a delay beyond 15 minutes, it might indicate an issue with your photos or internet connection.
- Proctor Contact: If there’s a problem with your submitted photos, the proctor will attempt to contact you via chat or by phone. The phone number may have a 617 US area code or display “Pearson VUE” on the caller ID. Please answer these calls so they can assist you in resolving any issues.
- Lost Connection: If you haven’t been contacted within 30 minutes, it’s possible that your connection has been lost. In this situation, immediately contact Pearson VUE customer service via the Pearson OnVUE Support live chat.
- Mobile Devices Out of Reach: Remember that your mobile device must be kept out of arm’s reach during the entire testing session, but nearby in case the proctor needs to call.
During Your ATD Online Exam
Q. Can anyone else be in my testing space during my ATD online exam?
No. It is strictly prohibited to have anyone else present in your testing space once your ATD online exam has started. This includes children, roommates, family members, colleagues, or anyone else. No one should enter or even pass through your testing area during your exam. This is a critical security rule to maintain the integrity of the exam process.
Q. Can I get assistance with my ATD exam during the test?
No. During your ATD online exam, the proctor is there to provide technical support and ensure exam security. They cannot answer any questions related to the exam content itself. Furthermore, you are not permitted to seek help from any other individuals while taking the exam. Your ATD online exam must be completed independently.
Q. Is technical support available during my ATD online exam?
Yes, technical assistance is readily available if you encounter any software issues during your ATD online exam.
How to Get Technical Help:
If you experience technical difficulties, simply raise your hand using the hand icon within the OnVUE application (usually located at the top of your screen). This will alert the proctor that you need assistance. The proctor will then communicate with you, typically via chat, to help resolve the issue.
Alternative Support:
If, for any reason, the hand-raising feature is unavailable, you can also access technical support via the chat button located on the OnVUE download page.
Preventing Technical Issues:
Many technical issues can be avoided by completing a system test prior to your exam and ensuring your computer meets all the specified system requirements for OnVUE. Common causes of problems include unreliable internet connections and other applications running in the background during the exam. Before starting your ATD online exam, ensure all unnecessary applications are closed and that you have a stable internet connection.
Q. What are the rules regarding personal belongings during my ATD online exam?
Generally, all personal belongings are required to be kept out of arm’s reach during your ATD online exam. This is to prevent any potential access to unauthorized materials.
Exceptions for Allowed Items:
However, some ATD certification programs may have specific policies that allow certain personal belongings or testing aids, such as calculators. If your ATD exam program permits any exceptions, this information will be clearly stated in the program-specific policies section related to your certification. Always check the official ATD exam guidelines for your specific certification.
Q. Am I allowed to eat or drink during my ATD online exam?
Yes, you are permitted to drink beverages during your ATD online exam. Chewing gum is also allowed.
Prohibited Items:
However, eating food or using tobacco products is strictly prohibited during the exam session. Please refrain from eating or using tobacco from the moment your exam begins until it is fully submitted and concluded.
Q. Can I take a break during my ATD online exam?
Break policies during ATD online exams are determined by each specific ATD certification program.
How to Find Break Information:
To determine if breaks are permitted during your ATD online exam and what the break policy is, you need to consult the program-specific policies section for your particular ATD certification. This information is usually available on the ATD certification website or in the exam guidelines provided to you. If breaks are allowed, the policy will outline the duration and any rules associated with taking a break.
Q. Could a proctor interrupt me during my ATD online exam session?
Yes, proctors are authorized to interrupt your ATD online exam session if necessary.
Reasons for Proctor Interruptions:
Proctors are trained to monitor exam sessions for any suspicious behavior or potential violations of exam rules. If a proctor observes something that raises concern, they may interrupt your exam to:
- Issue a Reminder: For instance, they might remind you not to talk aloud if you are speaking during the exam.
- Investigate Suspicious Activity: They might ask you to show them your testing area, your desk, or other aspects of your environment if they need to investigate a potential issue.
Proctor interruptions are part of maintaining exam integrity and ensuring a fair testing environment for all candidates.
Q. What kinds of behaviors are considered prohibited during my ATD online exam?
Proctors are vigilant in monitoring for any behaviors that could compromise the integrity of your ATD online exam. Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:
- Ignoring Proctor Instructions: Failure to comply with instructions given by the proctor.
- Looking Away from the Screen: Frequently or excessively looking away from your computer screen.
- Mumbling or Speaking Aloud: Reading exam questions aloud or making audible noises.
- Covering Face or Mouth: Obstructing the webcam’s view of your face or mouth.
- Unauthorized Materials: Using or having within reach any unauthorized materials, including mobile phones, notes, recording devices, or writing materials (unless specifically permitted for your exam).
- Interacting with Others: Communicating or interacting with any third parties, intentionally or unintentionally, during the exam.
- Leaving Webcam View: Moving out of the webcam’s field of view.
Engaging in any of these prohibited behaviors can result in warnings, exam revocation, or other penalties as determined by the proctor and ATD.
Q. What happens if I move out of the webcam view during my ATD online exam?
Maintaining visibility within the webcam view is essential throughout your ATD online exam.
Consequences of Leaving Webcam View:
Unless you are on a scheduled break that is explicitly permitted by your ATD exam program, leaving the webcam view for any reason or for any duration will result in serious consequences. Even if you have finished all the exam questions, stepping away from the webcam before properly concluding the exam will lead to:
- Exam Session Termination: Your exam session will be immediately stopped.
- Invalidated Exam Result: Your exam result will be considered invalid, and you will not receive a score.
Proper Exam Conclusion:
Important: After you have completed your ATD online exam and submitted your answers, you must fully close the OnVUE application before you are permitted to leave the webcam’s view. Ensure the application is completely shut down before moving away from your computer.
Q. What if my mobile phone rings during my ATD online exam?
Mobile phones must be kept in the testing room during your ATD online exam but placed out of arm’s reach to prevent any unauthorized use. It is recommended to place your phone on the floor beneath you or on a desk or table behind you.
Handling Phone Calls:
If your phone rings during your exam, and it is not from the proctor, you should not answer it. Let it ring and silence it if possible without leaving the webcam view.
Proctor Calls:
However, if your phone rings and the caller ID displays “617-379-0635” and/or “Pearson VUE,” it is likely the proctor trying to reach you. In this case:
- Answer the Call: You are permitted to reach for your phone and answer it, but you must remain within the webcam view while doing so. The proctor needs to be able to see you access the phone.
- Identify the Caller: Briefly identify who is calling. If it is indeed the proctor, follow their instructions.
- No Other Phone Use: Any mobile phone use beyond speaking with the proctor is strictly prohibited and could lead to exam revocation.
Q. Can I use tablets or touchscreens for ATD OnVUE exams?
No, tablets or mobile devices are not permitted for taking ATD OnVUE exams at this time. Touchscreen functionality is also not supported.
Supported Devices:
Currently, OnVUE exams, including ATD online exams, can only be taken on desktop and laptop computers that run Windows or macOS operating systems and meet the specified minimum technical requirements.
Mobile Device Restrictions:
As stated previously, mobile devices are not allowed in your immediate testing workspace during the exam and should be placed out of arm’s reach.
Q. What happens if my internet connection is disrupted during my ATD online exam?
Internet connection disruptions can occur, but OnVUE has measures in place to handle them during your ATD online exam.
Automatic Pause and Proctor Contact:
If your internet connection is interrupted, the exam timer will automatically pause, preventing you from losing exam time due to technical issues. The proctor will then attempt to contact you, either through your computer (via chat if possible) or by phone, to help you restore the connection.
Important: Respond to Proctor Contact: It is crucial that you respond to the proctor’s attempts to contact you. Failure to respond may result in your testing session being revoked.
Relaunching the Application:
If you lose connection or if the proctor instructs you to restart OnVUE, follow these steps to relaunch the application:
- Locate Downloads Folder: Go to your computer’s “Downloads” folder and find the OnVUE application file.
- Reopen OnVUE: Reopen the OnVUE application by double-clicking the file.
- Check-in Steps: You may need to go through some check-in steps again. Follow the prompts on the screen.
- Resume Exam: After completing any necessary steps, click “Next.” Your ATD online exam should reload and resume from where you left off.
Contact Customer Support if Exam Does Not Relaunch:
If your exam does not automatically relaunch after restarting the application and reconnecting to the internet, contact Pearson VUE customer service for further assistance.
Resuming from Interruption Point:
Once your connection is re-established and the application is restarted (if needed), you will be able to continue your ATD online exam from the exact question or point where the disruption occurred. You will not lose any progress due to a technical issue.
Q. Can I adjust the font size during my ATD online exam?
Yes, even though the testing computer is in a secure, locked-down mode during your ATD online exam, you do have the ability to adjust the font size for better readability.
Font Size Adjustment:
You can use the standard keyboard shortcuts CTRL+ (Ctrl key and plus key) to magnify the content and CTRL- (Ctrl key and minus key) to reduce the content size. You can magnify the content up to 200% of its original size.
Touchscreen Restriction:
Remember, even if you are adjusting font size, you are still not permitted to use touchscreen technology at any point during your ATD online exam. Use only keyboard shortcuts for font adjustments.
Q. Am I allowed to read questions aloud during OnVUE exams?
No, reading exam questions aloud is not permitted during OnVUE exams, including ATD online exams.
Proctor Intervention:
If you are detected reading questions aloud, the proctor will intervene and ask you to stop.
Consequences of Continuing to Read Aloud:
If you continue to read questions aloud after being instructed to stop by the proctor, it may be considered a violation of exam rules and could result in your ATD online exam being revoked. Maintain a quiet testing environment and read questions silently to yourself.
Q. What is the digital whiteboard feature in OnVUE?
Since physical scratch paper or note boards are not allowed during OnVUE exams, including ATD online exams, some exam programs offer a built-in digital whiteboard feature.
Purpose of the Digital Whiteboard:
The digital whiteboard provides a space within the OnVUE application for you to do scratch work, make notes, or organize your thoughts during the exam. It functions similarly to a virtual notepad.
Availability:
Whether or not a digital whiteboard is available for your ATD online exam depends on the specific exam program. Check the details of your ATD certification exam to see if this feature is enabled.
More Information:
You can find more information and potentially tutorials on how to use the digital whiteboard on the Pearson VUE website or by searching for “OnVUE digital whiteboard.”
Q. Where can I find my score report for my ATD online exam?
The process for accessing your score report varies depending on your specific ATD certification program.
Program-Specific Processes:
The location and timing of score report availability are determined by ATD and the specific certification you are pursuing.
Consult Your Program Information:
To find out when and where you can access your score report, you need to review the processes outlined by your ATD exam program. This information is usually available on the ATD certification website, in your exam registration materials, or through your ATD account.
Q. Can I use headphones during my ATD online exam?
No, headphones and headsets (whether wired or Bluetooth) are generally not allowed during OnVUE exams, including ATD online exams, unless explicitly approved by your specific ATD test sponsor.
Check Program Policies:
Unless you have received explicit written permission from ATD or your exam sponsor to use headphones for your specific exam, you should assume that they are prohibited. Always check the program-specific policies for your ATD certification to confirm the rules regarding headphones. If headphones are allowed, the specific conditions and types permitted will be detailed in the program policies.
General Policies for ATD Online Exams with OnVUE
Q. Are OnVUE testing policies different from test center policies?
Yes, OnVUE online testing policies differ from policies at physical test centers due to the remote nature of online proctoring.
Additional Policies for Online Proctoring:
Taking your ATD exam with OnVUE requires you to agree to additional policies designed to protect exam integrity in a remote environment. These policies include, but are not limited to:
- Consent to Recording and Monitoring: You must consent to being recorded and monitored throughout the entire exam session, both visually and audibly.
- Use of AI and Technology: You agree to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technology techniques for proctoring and security purposes. These technologies help to detect potential rule violations during the exam.
Policy Acceptance:
You are required to accept these OnVUE-specific policies during the exam registration process, before you schedule your ATD online exam. Make sure you read and understand these policies before proceeding with online testing.
Q. If an ATD exam is offered both in test centers and via OnVUE, can I reschedule between delivery methods?
No, the rescheduling function is not designed to switch between exam delivery methods. You cannot use the standard reschedule process to change from taking your ATD exam at a test center to taking it online with OnVUE, or vice versa.
Changing Delivery Method:
If you decide you want to change the delivery method (e.g., switch from test center to OnVUE), you will need to:
- Cancel Your Original Appointment: First, cancel your existing exam appointment. Be aware of any cancellation deadlines or fees that may apply.
- Schedule a New Appointment: After canceling, schedule a new exam appointment, selecting your desired delivery method (either test center or “home or office” for OnVUE) when you book the new appointment.
Ensure you understand the cancellation and rescheduling policies for your ATD exam before making changes to your appointment.
