ABIM is working with Pearson VUE to ensure your safety on exam day.
FAQs
What is Pearson VUE's face mask policy?
Some test centers will still require test takers to wear a face mask based on local or state guidelines. Please confirm your test center’s face mask requirement by visiting the Pearson VUE COVID-19 Update webpage the day before your exam.
ABIM suggests bringing a face mask to your appointment to ensure you have one available in case of any sudden changes to policy or personal preference. Pearson VUE is unable to provide a face mask.
Any surgical or cloth face mask, including a homemade face mask, is acceptable. You may also wear a face shield with your face mask if you choose. If wearing a face mask, you will be asked to briefly remove the face mask during the check-in process to take the required photo.
Can I wear gloves?
You are not required to wear gloves but may choose to do so. Gloves will not be provided by Pearson VUE. You may be asked to remove your gloves to complete a palm vein scan.
What sanitation procedures are in place at the test center?
Pearson VUE has implemented a strict cleaning regimen. This includes providing hand sanitizer to candidates upon entering the test center and sanitizing the surface and equipment of each workstation after the end of every appointment. Any equipment used during the check-in process is also sanitized after every use. At this time it has not been approved to bring your own cleaning wipes or hand sanitizer.
Can I bring tissues?
Tissues will be provided by Pearson VUE. You may bring your own tissues according to pre-approved comfort aids but they may be subject to inspection.
Will there be appropriate distancing at the workstations?
Pearson VUE will apply social distancing guidelines at test centers to meet state and local requirements, which will vary by location.
Will I be required to do a palm vein scan?
Yes, Pearson VUE has increased their cleaning and disinfecting regimens in between all testing appointments and this includes wiping down all areas with which test takers have had contact.
What if I am not feeling well on exam day?
If you exhibit symptoms upon arrival at the test center, you may be asked to reschedule your exam for another time when in full health. Please contact ABIM if this situation occurs.
I have had close contact with someone who has confirmed or suspected COVID-19, will I be admitted to the test center?
Physicians (medical/healthcare professionals) who treat patients while both are wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) will be admitted to the test center.
To be admitted to the test center, Pearson VUE may ask if you live with or have had close contact with someone who has confirmed or suspected COVID-19. We recognize many physicians are on the front lines treating patients during the pandemic, and in doing so may have come in close contact with someone who has confirmed or suspected COVID-19. If you experience any issues being admitted to the test center on exam day, please call us at 1-800-441-ABIM (2246).
I am traveling to take my exam in a location with travel restrictions, will I be admitted to the test center?
It is important that you know if there are travel restrictions for the location where you are taking your exam. If you travel to take the exam in a location with travel restrictions, Pearson VUE may not allow you to be admitted to the test center.
State, local, and territorial governments may have travel restrictions in place, including testing requirements, stay-at-home orders, and quarantine requirements upon arrival. For up-to-date information about state, local, and territorial travel restrictions, check the state and local health department where you are, along your route, and where you are going. If you are currently scheduled to take an exam in a location with travel restrictions, or experience any issues being admitted to the test center on exam day, please call us at 1-800-441-ABIM (2246).