June 1, 2020—As more jurisdictions reopen, NCCCO continues to monitor the COVID-19 information coming from national, state and local authorities.
At this time, we are pleased to announce the following changes to our previous update regarding candidate deadlines and testing availability.
Candidate Testing Deadlines
NCCCO realizes that the ability of candidates and certificants to test in a timely fashion has been impacted due to various local government restrictions. As such, NCCCO is taking the following actions:
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Candidates in the process of obtaining certification – Typically, candidates have 12 months to complete certification after passing their first exam (Except Lift Director candidates, who have 24 months).
Effective immediately, candidates whose deadline to complete certification is in March 2020, April 2020, May 2020, or June 2020 will now be extended to July 31, 2020. This extended time is automatic; no request needs to be made by the candidate.
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Computer-Based Testing Candidates – Typically, those applying for CBT exams must take their exams within 12 months of the application being approved.
Effective immediately, CBT candidates whose applications were approved in March 2019, April 2019, May 2019, or June 2019 and have not tested will now have until July 31, 2020, to take their CBT exam. This extended time is automatic; no request needs to be made by the candidate.
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Recertification Candidates – Typically, certificants must complete all recertification requirements in the 12 months prior to their expiration date.
Effective immediately, certificants will be granted additional time in which to complete recertification requirements. Certificants whose certification expires in March 2020, April 2020, May 2020, or June 2020 may now test for recertification no later than July 31, 2020, and thereby meet recertification requirements. This extended time is automatic; no request needs to be made by the candidate.
Temporary Extension of Certification Expiration Date
In addition, NCCCO will provide a temporary extension of the certification expiration date for certifications expiring in March 2020, April 2020, May 2020, or June 2020. The extension will be valid through July 31, 2020. This extension will be reflected in the Verify CCO Online (VCO) as well as the new myNCCCO mobile app available to certificants. VCO users will see the original expiration date crossed out and the extended expiration date of July 31, 2020, in red along with a note explaining the extension and reason. This extension is automatic; no request needs to be made by the candidate.
Computer-Based Test Administrations
As of May 29, 2020, PSI has opened approximately 90% of their owned and operated sites. Third-party sites will continue to become available over the coming weeks. All sites continue to operate at 50% capacity to ensure social distancing requirements are met. You can find real-time current availability here, and an updated list of closures and anticipated opening dates here. The closure list is updated daily.
The best time to determine availability is during the scheduling process. To schedule an exam, submit your CBT application online and within two (2) business days you will receive an email from PSI with instructions on scheduling online or through their call center. Candidates are encouraged to utilize the online scheduling system to schedule or reschedule the date, time, or location of their exam.
Candidates who wish to wear face coverings and/or medical gloves during testing may do so. However, candidates will be required to remove facemasks during the check-in process to verify identity and ensure security. PSI has created a FAQ regarding sites, safety, and sanitation.
Because of the variables that go into site openings, there have been cases of PSI site closings on short notice after re-opening. Candidates are encouraged to check email and voicemail before heading to a testing center as PSI utilizes these methods to reach out to candidates who may be affected by sudden closures.
Paper/Pencil Test Administrations
NCCCO continues to work with Test Site Coordinators to schedule and hold paper/pencil test administrations. Safety and security measures continue to be in place regarding distancing and sanitization. Click here to see a list of open administrations and contact information for Test Site Coordinators regarding testing at their facility.
Of course, NCCCO staff remains available to all stakeholders to answer any questions or address any concerns. Please feel free to contact us at any time.
View PDF of notification dated June 1, 2020.