Have you been approved to pre-register for the exam? If so, click here to download the IC&RC Pre-Registration Process Guide.
TEST PREPARATION: The link below is to a free, downloadable guide that contains information about the development and content of the IC&RC Prevention Specialist Exam, test administration, sample questions, and a list of references to assist with exam preparation.
The IC&RC Prevention Specialist Candidate Guide (updated March 2023) can be found here.
IC&RC also provides practice exams for a fee. Click here for practice exam information.
The Rhode Island Prevention Specialist Certification: Study Guide for the Certification Exam is also available for download. Although this guide was specifically developed for use by those seeking certification in Rhode Island, this guide is applicable to anyone preparing for IC&RC’s Prevention Specialist Exam.
EXAM PROCEDURES: The following steps must be followed:
- You apply for PS-C Certification. The entire application, including all references, must be received by MPCB and evaluated.
- MPCB approves your application and you become a PS-C candidate. You are approved to sit for the Prevention Specialist Examination.
- You pay the testing fee, using the “Payment” dropdown menu on the MPCB website.
- MPCB pre-registers you through the IC&RC testing center to sit for the exam.
- You receive pre-registration confirmation and information that will allow you to schedule the computer-based test through the IC&RC testing center website.
- You sit for the exam at the IC&RC testing center.
- MPCB provides you with your test results. If you receive a passing score, MPCB provides you with an approval letter and PS-C certificate. If you do not receive a passing score on the exam, MPCB provides you with next steps for re-taking the exam.
REMOTE PROCTORING OPTION: As of 2022, there is now a virtual, remote-proctor option to sit for the IC&RC exam, which is great for folks who prefer to take the exam at their home/office, or may face transportation barriers. Below is testimonial from a Maine Certified Prevention Specialist who chose this to take their exam remotely:
I had a great experience using the remote proctoring.
When taking the remotely proctored exam it’s important to note that the space you take it in should be uncluttered as possible. If there’s anything on your desk they will ask you to cover it with a blanket so it’s out of sight. It’s helpful if the space will be quiet and uninterrupted, which includes silencing all phones/doorbells. They are extremely thorough in checking your clothing, surroundings, even the ear jewelry or glasses you are wearing, so it makes the process easier if you go into the experience to be aware of that.
You can leave the exam to use the facilities, but the timer does not pause or stop, and you will have to show the proctor your surroundings and clothing again upon return. All this in mind, having a quiet place with a very strong internet connection and little clutter is important. You have to turn your camera/laptop 360 degrees to show the desk, walls, and floor. In addition, having some large blankets or a towel to cover things if necessary is helpful. I was asked to cover the printer in the space I was in and to take the under the desk trash out of the space.The actual digital testing format is very easy to use. You can mark and skip questions to return to for later review. You can navigate the entire test easily by seeing a list of all the questions marked for review or marked as unanswered. I found the process of taking the exam very smooth. The proctor stays online watching you take the exam, but you cannot see them on the screen. If you need to ask them something you can use a small chat box. This is how you notify them that you need to exit to use the facilities, or if you were to have a technical difficulty.
Overall, I had a positive experience using the remote proctoring and was very happy to be able to schedule the exam this way since testing locations are far from me.
If you need special accommodations for testing, complete the Special Accommodation Request Fillable Form.
With a written request, a candidate must provide official documentation of the accommodation requested. Submitted documentation must follow ADA guidelines in that psychological or psychiatric evaluations must have been conducted within the last three years. All medical/physical conditions require documentation of the treating physician’s examination conducted within the previous three months.
Candidates should contact their IC&RC Member Board to inquire about the necessary documentation prior to pre-registration. All requested Accommodations must be reviewed and approved by the Credentialing Board.
