ExamTools works the same way for both in-person and remote sessions. The platform mechanics — creating a session, checking in applicants, proctoring, signing forms, and submitting results — are identical. The differences are in how VEs observe applicants and how applicants connect.
What changes for remote sessions
| Step | In-person | Remote |
|---|---|---|
| Session type | In-person | Online / Remote |
| VE location | All VEs and applicants at the same physical location | VEs and applicants connect from separate locations via video |
| Identity verification | VE checks government-issued ID in person | Applicant holds ID up to camera; VE verifies over video |
| Session location | Physical address of the exam site | City/state/zip of the team lead — a physical address is still required for FCC reporting |
| Applicant monitoring | Visual observation in the room | Applicant shares screen; VE watches via video call |
| Form signing | Applicant and VEs sign on a shared or nearby device | Each party signs on their own device via the ExamTools link |
What does not change
- Session creation and configuration
- Applicant check-in and element selection
- The exam itself (same question pool, same interface)
- Pass/fail thresholds
- Form 605 and CSCE signing workflow
- VEC submission
VE requirements for remote sessions
Your VEC may have specific requirements for remote exam supervision — minimum number of VEs, recording policies, waiting room procedures, etc. Consult your VEC’s guidance before running your first remote session.
External tooling
ExamTools does not provide video conferencing, chat programs, or payment processing. Teams are responsible for arranging these independently per their VEC’s requirements.
- Video conferencing — Required for applicant monitoring and identity verification. Share the meeting link with applicants directly; there is no video meeting URL field in ExamTools.
- Applicant communication — Pre-session coordination (instructions, reminders, meeting links) is handled outside ExamTools by the team.
- Payment — If your VEC permits collecting a fee, that is handled outside ExamTools through a channel of the team’s choosing.
Tip: Set up a waiting room on your video platform so VEs can admit applicants one at a time and verify identity before the exam begins.