Where to Take CompTIA A+ Exam: Everything You Need to Know

Where to take the CompTIA A+ exam is a common question for many candidates preparing for this IT certification. With multiple testing options available, it’s important to understand the factors that influence your choice. From technical requirements to testing environments, each option has unique aspects to consider. This article will guide you through key points to help you decide the best place to take your CompTIA A+ exam and ensure a smooth, successful testing experience.

Where can I take the CompTIA A+ exam?

Where can I take the CompTIA A+ exam

To earn the CompTIA A+ certification, candidates can choose between two testing formats:

1. Online testing: Take the exam remotely from your home or another location, monitored through online proctoring.
2. In-person testing at authorized centers: Take the exam onsite at an official CompTIA A+ testing center supervised by authorized staff.

Each method is designed to accommodate different needs depending on your personal preferences, technical setup, and access to a secure environment.

In-person testing

In-person testing

If you prefer a traditional exam environment, you can take the CompTIA A+ exam at an authorized CompTIA A+ testing center.

Taking the CompTIA A+ exam at a physical test center remains the most traditional option. Pearson VUE partners with hundreds of authorized testing locations across the United States to provide a controlled, professional exam setting.

Test center locations & booking availability

Pearson VUE operates a wide network of certified test centers in major cities, suburbs, and some rural areas. In the United States, you can typically find a test center in or near:

• Large metropolitan areas (e.g., New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston)
• University campuses or technical colleges
• Professional training facilities and certification centers.

To check whether there are any test centers near your location, visit the Pearson VUE CompTIA testing page.

To check booking availability, you’ll first need to schedule your CompTIA A+ exam by creating an exam profile and starting the registration process.

Required documents

To be admitted to a test center, you must bring:

1. Primary ID: A valid, government-issued photo identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
2. Secondary ID: A second form of ID that confirms your name and either your photo or signature. (e.g, a credit card with a signature, a School or employee ID )

You do not need to bring your exam voucher if you have already registered online. The staff will verify your appointment in the system. 

Want to know exactly what to bring (and what not to)? Read the checklist: What Can I Bring to the CompTIA A+ Exam?

Exam-day experience

Inside the test center:

• You will be seated at a dedicated workstation with a Pearson VUE-approved computer.
• The workstation runs locked-down exam software to prevent access to external tools or browsers.
• Surveillance cameras and live proctors monitor the room continuously.

Online testing

Online testing

Online testing offers a convenient alternative to visiting a CompTIA A+ test center, and still earn your globally recognized certification. To take the exam online, simply schedule your exam first:

• Visit the official CompTIA website
• Creating an exam profile
• Choose the A+ certification
• Select the “Online Testing” option. 

You’ll then be guided through scheduling your exam process and checking that your computer and testing environment meet the requirements.

System requirements

To ensure exam integrity, OnVUE requires a specific technical setup. Failing to meet these requirements can lead to disqualification or last-minute rescheduling. Minimum technical requirements include:

• Operating system: Windows 10 or 11; macOS 10.13 or newer
• Webcam: Integrated or external, must face the candidate directly
• Microphone and speakers: Required (headsets not allowed)
• Internet: Stable, wired or wireless connection
  • Minimum: 6 Mbps download, 2 Mbps upload
  • Strongly recommended: wired connection for stability
• Browser: Latest versions of Chrome or Firefox
• Admin access: Required to install the OnVUE software

You must run a system test in advance through the OnVUE website.

Testing place requirements

Your testing space must meet strict criteria to avoid disqualification:

• You must be in a quiet, private, and well-lit room with no distractions. 
• Your desk must be clear of any unauthorized materials, such as notes or electronics.
• Do not attempt to test in a public place (like a library or café) or while undressed, as this may result in disqualification.

Before starting the exam, you’ll be required to perform a 360° room scan using your webcam. If the environment does not meet the requirements, the proctor may cancel your exam.

Required documents

Just like at a CompTIA A+ exam testing center, you must present a valid primary ID and a secondary ID.

However, U.S. Military IDs, such as the Department of Defense (DoD) CAC card, are not accepted for online exams due to legal restrictions on capturing them via webcam. Always review ID policies carefully when scheduling your exam to ensure compliance.

Exam-day experience

When taking the CompTIA A+ exam online via OnVUE, your entire session will be supervised in real time by a remote proctor. To maintain the integrity of the exam, strict monitoring rules apply:

• You will be watched through your webcam, microphone, and screen sharing
• The proctor has the authority to pause or terminate your exam at any time
• You must remain silent, seated, and in full view of the camera throughout the test
• Speaking, leaving your desk, or covering your face is strictly prohibited

Any violation may lead to immediate exam termination.

FAQs

1. Can I take the CompTIA A+ exam online?

Yes! CompTIA offers an official online testing option, allowing candidates to take the exam from home or any quiet location that meets the technical and environmental requirements.

2. Should I take CompTIA A+ online or in person?

Both online and in-person options lead to the same globally recognized CompTIA A+ certification. Your choice should depend on your environment and preferences.

• Online exam: Offers flexibility and convenience. It is ideal if you have a quiet, private space, a reliable internet connection, and meet all technical requirements. However, it requires strict compliance with remote proctoring rules and technical setup.
• In-person exam: Conducted at authorized CompTIA A+ testing centers. It provides a controlled environment with on-site staff support, making it a better choice if your home setup is not suitable or if you prefer face-to-face procedures.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, deciding where to take the CompTIA A+ exam depends largely on your circumstances and comfort level. Online testing offers flexibility and convenience, while in-person centers provide a traditional, distraction-free environment. Whichever you choose, both options lead to the same valuable certification that can boost your IT career. Be sure to review the requirements and prepare accordingly to set yourself up for success on exam day.