5 Steps to Set Up Your Room for the Illinois Online Insurance Exam

Taking your Illinois insurance licensing exam online? Smart move. With Pearson VUE’s OnVUE platform, you can do it from home with a live proctor. But before you log in, ensure your space is fully ready for test day. Even small setup mistakes can delay your exam or disqualify your results.

Prefer a traditional setup? Illinois insurance exams can also be taken in person. Choose the option that works best for your space and schedule.

Here’s exactly how to prep your room and equipment so you can stay calm, compliant, and focused on passing.

Step 1: Choose the Right Room

You must be alone, in a closed, private room with no interruptions. That’s non-negotiable. 

• Avoid shared spaces like living rooms, kitchens, or coworking areas.
  

• Lock the door and let anyone you live with know not to disturb you.
  

• Turn off and remove all smart devices — phones, watches, smart speakers, etc.
  

Need the full picture? Steps to Get Your Illinois Insurance License in 2025 walks you through all exam-day expectations, including approved testing vendors.

Step 2: Clear Off Your Desk

Your workspace needs to be completely free of any unapproved materials — your proctor will check.

• Allowed items: your computer, a mouse, a government-issued photo ID, and Comfort Aid items. 
  

• No books, notes, sticky pads, headphones, drinks, or pens.
  

• Remove any extra monitors, devices, or accessories not needed for the exam.
  

Want to double-check what's allowed? Visit Pearson VUE’s online testing tips, depending on your provider.

Step 3: Set Up Your Equipment Correctly

Tech issues are one of the biggest reasons exams get flagged. Avoid that stress by checking everything ahead of time.

• Use a laptop or desktop — mobile devices and tablets aren’t allowed.
  

• Test your webcam and microphone in advance. Your face must be visible at all times.
  

• Use a wired internet connection or make sure your Wi-Fi is strong and stable.
  

• Charge your laptop fully and plug it in during the exam to prevent shutdowns.
  

Not sure your system is ready? Run a system check directly through Pearson VUE’s Illinois portal.

Step 4: Prep for the Room Scan

Before your exam starts, your proctor will walk you through a 360° scan of your entire space.

• Move your webcam to show all walls, under your desk, and the ceiling.
  

• Take down posters, calendars, whiteboards, or anything with writing.
  

• Turn off and unplug extra screens, TVs, or projectors.
  

• Face away from windows to avoid glare and reduce distractions.
  

Your proctor will ask questions if anything looks suspicious, so take 5–10 minutes beforehand to set your room up for success.

Step 5: Control the Environment

Once the exam begins, it’s just you, your screen, and the timer — no second chances or do-overs.

• Turn off all computer notifications, popups, and background apps.
  

• Wear appropriate clothing (avoid hoodies, hats, or sunglasses).
  

• Use a comfortable chair and proper lighting to keep your face visible.

For more guidance, check out the Illinois Department of Insurance Producer Licensing page for state-specific testing policies.

Final Checklist for Illinois Candidates

Before test day, make sure you’ve:

• Completed your Illinois pre-licensing education (24 hours of required coursework)

• Registered for your exam through Pearson VUE

• Met Illinois’ fingerprinting and background check requirements

• Schedule your online exam at least 48 hours in advance

Feeling nervous about test day? These 8 tips to help pass the Illinois Insurance Exam will walk you through how to stay calm, focused, and confident when it’s time to log in.

Still have questions or need support? Aceable’s support team is here to help you navigate every step.