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Board approves including online exam option in next testing contract
Summary
The Board for Licensing Contractors voted to recommend that the next examination-provider contract include an online proctored testing option, citing improved technology and other boards’ experience.
The Board for Licensing Contractors voted July 29 to recommend that the board include an online-proctored exam option in the next trade-exam provider contract.
Staff told the board the current contract with PSI runs through 2026 and that the agency’s contract specialists are preparing the next procurement. Staff said other regulatory boards and real-estate exams have used online proctored testing without major security incidents in the first year of use; the option would be added at no additional cost to this board.
Board members who had taken online proctored tests noted the security is strict. One board member said: “They make you film your entire room that you're in. It is extreme.” Another said the proctoring software monitors eye movement and other behaviors. After discussion about security and the maturity of the technology, a motion to recommend including the online option in the next contract carried by voice vote.
Board staff said inclusion of the option would allow candidates to select in-person or online testing; staff will instruct contract specialists on specifications when the procurement begins. The board noted the change would require vendor implementation and internal planning but would not increase costs to the board under the proposed approach.
