February 1, 2023—Candidates can now opt to take their CCO written exams using the new Online Proctored Testing (OPT) option on their own internet-connected computer from almost anywhere, 24/7/365.
Benefits of OPT include:
- Greater flexibility in scheduling and rescheduling
- Immediate score reporting*
- No late application or rescheduling fees
*Preliminary results will be available immediately. All results and test administration are subject to review and approval following standard testing protocols.
CCO’s other new testing modality, Event Online Testing (EOT), which will be available April 1 of this year, will provide similar benefits and a similar look-and-feel as OPT. Prospective testing personnel will be able to access the myCCO Testing Personnel dashboard as of March 1. The first EOT exams will be held at CONEXPO in mid-March.
What Does OPT Look Like?
Candidates take exams via a computer in a private, well-lit room with a door and that is void of any materials (i.e., electronic devices, books, papers, etc.) on the table or desk. Exams that require supplements (e.g., load charts) or calculators will have these available on-screen. The exam also has a whiteboard that takes the place of scratch paper. CCO has prepared a video demonstrating how the testing platform works:
Through the myCCO Portal at my.ccocert.org, candidates also have access to a demo exam at no cost. This demo exam is intended to provide a test simulation experience and give candidates an opportunity to familiarize themselves with how to navigate through the exam and use the on-screen tools, including:
*Links go to videos for each topic; all of these videos are included in the complete OPT demo video linked above.
Applying and Scheduling
Candidates interested in registering for OPT exams should ensure their computers meet minimum requirements. OPT exams may be taken on any laptop or desktop computer that meets minimum technical requirements (see www.nccco.org/compreq for the requirements) and is equipped with both a microphone and webcam.
Want to check to see if your computer meets requirements? Find out how to ensure your computer and testing space are prepared for testing at https://www.nccco.org/nccco/get-cco-certified/online-proctored-testing/how-to-prepare-for-opt.
Applications to test via OPT are submitted through the myCCO Portal, as is scheduling and, if needed, rescheduling.
Exams can be scheduled in as little as 15 minutes. This allows candidates the flexibility to schedule when work schedules change at the last minute or simply when they feel best prepared. OPT also permits a great deal of flexibility if a candidate must reschedule—which can be done up to 30 minutes prior to the start of the exam!
More information including step-by-step instructions on the application process, fees, and to apply can be found at www.nccco.org/opt.