The ExamTools ecosystem spans several websites across three environments. Use production for real exam sessions, sandbox for training and practice.
Environment overview
| Environment | URL | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Production | exam.tools or examtools.org | Create and access real exam sessions |
| Sandbox | examtools.dev or sandbox.examtools.org | Create and access sandbox sessions for training and practice |
| Development | beta.exam.tools | Generally stable environment with new features — may produce unexpected results |
| Development | alpha.exam.tools | Bleeding-edge environment used by a small group of developers. Do not use unless you know what you are doing. |
| Feature Requests | features.exam.tools | View, vote on, and submit feature requests |
| Documentation | docs.exam.tools | This site |
Production vs. sandbox
The sandbox environment is a completely separate system with its own database. A login from production does not work in the sandbox and vice versa — you need a separate account for each.
Use the sandbox to:
- Learn the platform before your first real session
- Train new VEs without affecting real applicants or license records
- Test workflows and troubleshoot issues safely
Nothing in the sandbox is ever submitted to the FCC or any VEC.
Supported browsers
ExamTools is officially supported on Chrome and common Chrome-based browsers (Edge, Brave, etc.) on Windows 10, macOS, and mainstream Linux distributions.
Other browsers are community-tested but not officially supported. Some features may not work in non-Chrome browsers. Verify any non-Chrome browser works correctly before using it in a live session.
Internet Explorer is not supported.