CONTRACTOR LICENSING GUIDE
Can I Take the Contractor’s License Exam Online?
Online proctored exams are increasingly available, but many state contractor exams still require in-person testing.
The Shift Toward Online Testing
Since 2020, many professional licensing exams have moved toward online proctored testing — where you take the exam at home or at your office under live video surveillance. Contractor license exams have followed this trend, but adoption varies significantly by state and testing provider.
PSI Services and Pearson VUE — the two largest administrator of state contractor exams — both offer online proctored testing for many of their contractor exam programs. Not all states and classifications are available online; some still require in-person testing at a PSI or Pearson VUE testing center.
How online proctored exams work: You schedule online through the testing provider, install a secure testing browser, perform an identity verification and environment check (clear desk, no second monitors, no phones), and then take the exam with a live proctor monitoring via webcam. Any violation of testing rules results in immediate exam termination.
Check your state: The only way to know if your specific exam is available online is to check the registration page for your state’s exam through PSI or Pearson VUE. The options shown at registration reflect what’s available for your classification.
Related Questions
Is the online exam the same difficulty as in-person?
Yes — it’s the same exam, same questions, same passing standards. The only difference is the delivery method.
What equipment do I need for an online proctored exam?
A computer (no tablet) with a webcam and microphone, stable internet connection, a clean private space with no second monitors, and the secure testing software installed before the exam.
What if I have technical problems during the exam?
Contact the proctor immediately through the exam interface. Proctoring services have technical support and protocols for handling technical issues during an exam.
Get Your Insurance in Place Before Your Exam
Most states require proof of insurance with the license application. We get your COI ready before your exam results even arrive.