Exam Day

In this section, you will find an in-depth look at the candidate exam day process and the rules to be followed during the administration of your exam at a Pearson Professional Center. Below are a few things to think about on the exam day:

Be Prepared

When you arrive for your NCLEX, you'll need your acceptable ID.

You will no longer need to bring a paper copy of the Authorization to Test (ATT) for admittance to the NCLEX. For further details, please visit Authorization to Test. 

Dress Comfortably

You're required to leave hats, scarves, gloves and coats outside of the testing room. (Provisions are made for religious/cultural dress.)

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your exam. If you are more than 30 minutes late, you may have to forfeit, reregister and pay another exam fee.

Provide Your Biometrics

In order to be tested, the following biometrics will be taken: signature, photograph and palm vein scan.

Receive Materials

You may not bring in paper or writing instruments for this computer-administered exam. An on-screen calculator and erasable note board/marker for making notes will be provided.

Set Your Pace

You'll have up to five hours to complete the RN and PN exams, including the short tutorial and two optional breaks (the first two hours into testing, the second after 3.5 hours of testing). Take time to analyze each question carefully—once you submit an answer you cannot return to that question. Learn more about computer adaptive testing (CAT). 

Finishing Up

The test will end with a short survey. Afterwards, candidates should raise their hand and wait for the TA to dismiss them.

Keep in mind that although the exam is graded as you progress, scores go through a second verification process at Pearson VUE. Your score is not available and will not be released at the test center. See After the Exam for results info.