ExamTools can generate randomized paper exams for any license element. Each exam is unique — questions are drawn from the FCC question pool and arranged in a different order for every copy.
When to use paper exams
Paper exams are appropriate when:
- Applicants do not have access to a device during the session
- Your location has unreliable internet connectivity
- Your VEC or session policy requires paper exams
- You are running a backup paper exam alongside a computer exam session
Grading methods
ExamTools supports two ways to grade a paper exam:
GradeCam (camera scanning) A VE opens the GradeCam scanner from the session view and holds the completed bubble form up to a device camera. ExamTools reads the answers and grades the exam automatically. The result is attached to the applicant’s record immediately — no separate entry step is needed.
Manual grading A VE compares the applicant’s answer sheet against the printed answer key and counts the correct answers. Scores can optionally be entered into ExamTools to use the digital signature workflow, but most manual grading sessions do not — results are recorded on paper and submitted to the VEC traditionally.
A session can use either method, or a mix of both.
What you need
- A computer with internet access to generate exam PDFs — this can be done before exam day
- A printer for letter-size pages
- Printed exam booklets and, for GradeCam, the matching bubble forms (downloaded separately)
- For GradeCam: a device with a camera to run the scanner
- For manual grading: the printed answer key
How paper exams fit into a session
ExamTools can be used at different levels of involvement for paper-based sessions:
Full ExamTools session — Create and manage the session in ExamTools, check in applicants, use GradeCam to grade and record results automatically, then use the digital signature workflow for Form 605 and CSCE. This follows the same session structure as computer exams — create, open, check in applicants, grade, sign forms, finalize.
Exam generation only — Use ExamTools solely to generate and print exam booklets, then administer the session traditionally with paper forms, paper CSCEs, and manual VEC submission. No ExamTools session or applicant management is needed.
Sessions that use ExamTools for management can mix paper and computer exams — even for the same applicant across different elements.