If something goes wrong
The problems that come up most often, and what to do about each one. If yours is not here, email vetesting@yahoo.com — our examiners are volunteers, so please allow up to 24 hours.
Before your session
My Zoom link has not arrived
Links are emailed within 48 hours of booking, and registrations are processed once a day. If you booked for tomorrow, keep checking — including your spam and junk folders. If your session is close and nothing has arrived, email us.
I paid, but I have a non-payment notice
Either the card payment did not go through, or the name and email on the payment do not match the name and email on your exam registration. Email us and we will send an invoice with your name on the subject line.
I cannot rename my devices in Zoom
You cannot rename them from the waiting room, which is where most people try. Sign in on the Zoom website beforehand and set your first and last name, then add “computer” or “phone” so the team can tell your two devices apart.
I need to reschedule
Email us as soon as you know. Someone else can almost always use the slot, and volunteers have set aside that time for you.
Equipment
All I have is an iPad or a Chromebook
Neither will work as your exam computer. These devices switch the camera off when sharing a screen, and we need to see your face throughout. You need a Windows or Mac laptop or desktop. An iPad or phone is fine as your second device.
I have two monitors
Only one screen may be working in the room. Turn the others off, turn them around, or cover them. A laptop cannot be docked to anything.
Zoom will not open, or only works in my browser
The Zoom application has to be installed and running. Zoom in a browser will not work for the exam. Install it in advance and test your camera and microphone before the day — not while the team is waiting.
My laptop needs an external mouse or keyboard
Neither is allowed, and you will not need one. You answer with the A, B, C and D keys only, and questions advance on their own. Do not scroll or use the trackpad during the exam.
On the day
My session time has passed and I am still in the waiting room
Wait. Being in the waiting room means you have a link and you are on the schedule. Some candidates take longer than others, so sessions run behind. You have not been forgotten.
Can I check my screen share works while I wait?
No. Testing screen share or other Zoom functions in the waiting room will get you removed from the session. Wait for the team to bring you in.
Do I have to take my watch off?
Yes — watches, earbuds, headphones and smart glasses all come off for the exam itself. Keep them on during setup; the team will tell you when.
My phone keeps making noise when it joins
When we bring your phone into the session, put it down and leave it alone. Do not touch it whatever appears on screen. On an iPhone choose “Cancel” at the audio prompt; on other devices choose “Deny” or “Dial by phone”, or simply do not pick an option.
After you pass
Where is my CSCE?
Emailed within 48 hours of an online session. It is your proof of what you passed until the FCC catches up.
Where is my call sign?
We file electronically, so most licences and upgrades come through in 5 to 7 business days — the standard FCC process takes three to four weeks. Please wait ten business days before asking us or the FCC, and watch for the FCC application-fee email: you have only 10 days to pay it, and Gmail accounts often do not receive it. See what happens next.