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The Board of Laser Safety offers the exam via paper-and-pencil twice per year and also via computer-based testing centers across North America. The application process is the same for both modes of examination.
Exam Options
Paper-and-Pencil Exams
Paper-and-Pencil exams for both CLSO and CMLSO are offered. Check-in for exams begins promptly 30-minutes prior to the scheduled exam time and late admission is not permitted. The BLS offers the pencil and paper exam preceding the following events:
| International Laser Safety Conference |
| Department of Energy LSO Workshop |
For more information and specific dates, reach out to bls@lasersafety.org.
Computer-Based Testing Centers
We are able to offer computer-based testing all year via appointment through our third-party partner, Prov Inc., which utilizes over 300 college and university testing centers across North America. International computer-based testing is not available at this time. Once a candidate is approved for a computer-based exam, BLS will email instructions for scheduling this exam through Prov. Some locations allow for scheduling through Prov’s online portal, while others require that the candidate call Prov to schedule. Either way, it is the candidate’s responsibility to locate a testing center that is convenient and schedule their exam within their two-year window of approval.
Remote Proctoring
We are able to offer remotely proctored exams all year via appointment through ExamRoom.Ai, a Prov partner. Please note, international testing may be unavailable based on the country’s current data privacy laws and US sanctions that are in effect. Remote Proctoring is not available in the following countries:
- North Korea
- Cuba
- Iran
- Iraq
- Pakistan
The exam is only available in English. It is the candidate’s responsibility to be sure their computer meets ExamRoom.Ai's system requirements and schedule their exam within their two-year window of approval. It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure that they have access to a stable internet connection at the location they plan to take the exam and are responsible for choosing an appropriate testing environment. Once a candidate is approved for a remotely proctored exam, candidates will receive email instructions for scheduling this exam through Prov.
Permitted Devices
Permitted devices are Windows and Mac laptops and desktops, as well as a Google Chrome book with working webcam microphone.
Please review the BLS Policies and Procedures to see all applicable terms and conditions for remote proctoring.