CKA-Exam-Handbook
CKA-Exam-Handbook
Resources)
Linux Foundation Certification Exam: Candidate
Handbook (using PSI BRIDGE Proctoring
platform)
This handbook applies to Linux Foundation Exams proctored using the PSI BRIDGE
Proctoring Service.
The Linux Foundation works closely with open source project communities to deliver relevant, respected,
hands-on certifications to technology professionals around the world.
The Linux Foundation is unique in that we don’t just provide the certifications for today’s most in-demand
technologies; our involvement goes far beyond that. We host the projects developing these technologies
and provide resources and staffing to help keep these development communities healthy and thriving. So
when it comes right down to it, no one is closer to these technologies than The Linux Foundation.
Candidate Requirements
Linux Foundation Certification Exams are delivered online and are closely monitored by a proctor during the
exam session via streaming audio, video and screensharing feeds. The screensharing feed allows proctors
to view candidates' desktops (including monitor). The audio, video, and screen sharing feeds will be stored
for a limited period of time in the event that there is a subsequent need for review.
If you’re interested in taking an online proctored exam through PSI and want a better understanding of what
to expect, watch the PSI Online Proctoring Experience video.
System Requirements
Candidates should run the PSI Online System Security Check to verify that their machine meets the
technical requirements for taking a proctored exam.
The online proctored exam is taken on PSI's Proctoring Platform "Bridge", using the PSI Secure Browser (a
web browser created to guarantee a secure exam delivery over a virtual connection).
The PSI Secure Browser download/installation will begin when you Select “Launch exam” from the PSI
Dashboard.
PSI Secure Browser Download is made available to candidates at Exam Launch Time.
Candidates should review the Bridge FAQ Information, published by PSI, to prepare for the
Secure Browser installation and be aware of how to resolve issues with the Installation/download
or launch of their exam:
PSI Secure Browser FAQ (General)
PSI Secure Browser - Linux OS Troubleshooting
Supported OS: Please review the System Requirements, published by PSI, in particular the supported
Operating System Information.
All browsers are supported, however PSI highly recommends using Chrome as the registration browser
because the secure browser is Chrome-based and will give a more accurate experience.
One active monitor (either built in or external) (NOTE: Dual Monitors are NOT supported)
The Linux Foundation recommends a screen size of 15” or higher to support the ExamUI.
Microphone
Mac users may need to allow the PSI Secure Browser within their 'System Preferences: Security &
Privacy: Privacy' settings for Microphone, Camera, Automation and Input Monitoring.
Please check to make sure it is working before you start your exam session.
Webcam
Ensure the webcam is capable of being moved as you will have to pan your surroundings to check
for potential violations of exam policy.
Mac users may need to allow the PSI Secure Browser within their 'System Preferences: Security &
Privacy: Privacy' settings for Microphone, Camera, Automation and Input Monitoring.
If you will be testing from an employer-provide ISP please ensure that streaming will be allowed
using WebRTC.
Candidates are not allowed to have other applications or browser windows running except the one on which
the Exam is being shown.
Please disable firewalls or use a computer without a corporate firewall. Firewalls may interfere with
installing the secure browser needed to take the test.
You should use a computer on which you have the privileges needed to install applications AND end
system process' and services.
You cannot take an exam using a virtual machine even though the compatibility check may not display
any issues
If possible, stop any antivirus software from running, and antivirus scanning during the exam time.
Please review the PSI Bridge Platform: System Requirements to ensure your machine will meet the online
system proctoring requirements.
Candidates should run the Online Proctoring System Check provided by the Exam Proctoring Partner to
ensure their machine meets the technical requirements for taking a proctored exam
LF Account
Candidate should have their own LF account. For more details on how to create LF account, please refer to
Creating LF Account.
Lighting
Space must be well lit so that proctor is able to see candidate’s face, hands, and surrounding work
area
No bright lights or windows behind the candidate
Other
Candidate must remain within the camera frame during the examination
Space must be private where there is no excessive noise. Public spaces such as coffee shops,
stores, open office environments, etc. are not allowed.
That means they must schedule an exam reservation date to occur within 12 months of purchase, or before
their corporate subscription expires. After that date, the exam registration expires and the candidate will no
longer be eligible to schedule or sit for the exam.
Only credit card payments can be used for payment and all major credit cards are accepted.
Volume discounts are available for companies with multiple candidates. Please click on the "Get a Quote"
link on our certification product page(s).
Candidates will be redirected to The Linux Foundation LMS where they can
(a) Sign in with an existing LF Account and proceed to the secure checkout to complete the transaction or
(b) Create a new LF Account by providing a Username, First/Last name and Email address, and proceed to
the secure checkout to complete the transaction.
A request to "Verify your Email" will be sent to the email address provided when creating a new LF Account.
When the candidate has completed their purchase, they must follow the instructions in the email to "Verify
Email" in order to gain access to their Certification Exam.
Secure Checkout
To complete the checkout process, candidates will click "Enter Payment Information" and enter their Credit
Card information. Prior to completing their order, candidates will be prompted to read and accept The Linux
Foundation Terms and Conditions.
Returning Customers
If the candidate is a returning customer and a credit card has been saved to their account, the system will
display the last 4 digits of the credit card on file, and advise that this card will be charged.
If the candidate wants to use a different credit card to complete the purchase, they must:
1
1. login to My Portal and click on "Account" (click the down arrow beside their profile name to see the link
to your "Account" )
2. Click "Update Credit Card Info" and enter the details of their credit card
3. Click "Save Credit Card" to update the Credit Card details on file.
Candidates can login to My Portal and click on the Purchase History option to view all their transactions and
print a receipt.
If candidates need to print a receipt for for purchases completed BEFORE June 20, 2020, they can:
Click on the order you wish to use and click on the "Printable Invoice" Tab
You will be prompted to enter the recipient's First and Last Name, and their Email Address. Clicking on
"Enter Payment Information" will redirect you to the Secure Checkout page to complete your order.
The recipient of the "Gift" will receive an email with instructions on how to Redeem a Code provided for the
Certification Exam purchased on their behalf.
Candidate Identification & Authentication
UPDATED AUGUST 2022
Once a candidate clicks on "Launch Exam" in the PSI Dashboard, the "Verified Name" (from the
exam checklist) is sent to PSI and this is considered the Registered name for the exam session.
NO CHANGES ARE PERMITTED TO THE VERIFIED NAME ONCE YOU HAVE STARTED
THE LAUNCH EXAM PROCESS.
Candidates need to provide identification (ID) that meets the requirements outlined below:
All IDs must be valid (unexpired) Government-issued originals (i.e. not a photocopy)
IDs must include the candidate's name, photo, and signature*
*Government-issued biometric IDs that do not contain signature will be accepted
The first and last name on the ID must exactly match the verified name entered on your exam checklist
During the PSI check-in process, the candidate's guardian must also present a valid ID and must
provide verbal consent during the PSI check-in process.
Sanctioned Countries
Exams may be administered to citizens of a sanctioned country listed below PROVIDED the citizens are
tested OUTSIDE the sanctioned country and their exam registration and current ID show an address
OUTSIDE the sanctioned country.
Cuba
Iran
Syria
Sudan
North Korea
Crimea Region of Ukraine
If you need additional help, please login to trainingsupport.linuxfoundation.org and use the search bar to
find an answer to your question, or select your request type from the categories provided.
Exam Refund Policy
You may request a refund of exam registration fees if both of the following are true:
(a) Your exam registration purchase was less than three (3) business days ago AND
For exam purchases made through an Authorized Training Partner, contact the specific Partner to check
eligibility for an exam registration refund.
If you are eligible for a refund (per the Exam Refund Policy), please login with your LF Account to
https://trainingsupport.linuxfoundation.org and select your request type from the categories provided.
My Portal
Candidates can access My Portal at any time by going to
https://trainingportal.linuxfoundation.org/learn/dashboard or by clicking on the My Portal Menu item from
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/.
Candidate can login into My Portal when they have the LF account.
For details on how to create an LF account, please refer to Creating LF Account.
Candidates can use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft browsers to access My
Portal.
When a new browser version is released, we support the latest version and we stop supporting
the third most recent version of such browser.
Once a candidate has logged into My Portal, they will be able to view the status of their Certification Exams
and their courses.
View your purchase history (for orders completed after June 20, 2020)
The purchase history section reflects only paid transactions.
Products which are $0 or paid for using 100% prepaid codes are not displayed here
Once a candidate has logged into My Portal, they will be able to view My Profile.
Checklist Items
Candidates should use the exam checklist to review and complete the steps necessary to schedule and
take the exam. When items in the checklist have been completed, a green check mark will appear next to
the item.
Please Note: The "Schedule" Button will become active, and the Candidate will be able to proceed to
schedule an exam, only after they complete the first 3 checklist items:
Agree to Global Candidate Agreement Candidates must click on the "Agree to Global
Candidate Agreement"
to indicate they agree to the "Linux Foundation
Global Certification and Candidate Agreement"
(available for review by clicking on the "Read Now
button.
Check System Requirements The Candidate must check that their machine
meets the technical requirements for taking a
proctored exam
Clicking on the "Check Now" button will direct the
Candidate to a System Check Tool. The
Candidate should Run the System check and
complete any recommended steps.
Get Candidate Handbook Candidates should click on the "Read Now" butto
to familiarize themselves with the Candidate
Handbook prior to taking the exam.
Take Exam Candidates must complete all checklist items
before their scheduled Exam time
The "Take Exam" button will become available 30
minutes prior to the scheduled exam time.
Clicking on "Take Exam" will redirect candidates t
the proctoring partner's site, where they will launc
the exam.
This will be the same name printed on your certificate, should you pass the exam and become certified.
Click within the field to edit the First or Last name displayed.
Click “Accept” to confirm.
Your Verified Name can not be changed once you launch the exam - so the candidate should
review their verified name BEFORE they click "Take Exam" and ensure it matches the Primary ID
that they will present to the proctor.
Platform Selection
The candidate's exam will be provisioned on the Platform displayed in the "Select Platform" field. To select a
different platform, and if this is an available option, candidates may click on the Platform drop down list and
select their preferred platform.
The Candidate may change their selected platform as often as they wish, and up to 24 hrs prior to their
scheduled exam date and time. Platform selection options for Linux Foundation Certification Exams are as
follows:
Linux Foundation Exam Name Platform Option Available
No Platform
LFCA
LFCT Distro-Agnostic
KCNA No Platform
CTAD No Platform
PCA No Platform
RVFA No Platform
Test Accommodations
A candidate can request test accommodations by completing the Test Accommodations Form, and returning
it to trainingsupport.linuxfoundation.org.
The completed form must be submitted at least two (2) weeks before the candidate plans to take an exam.
If Additional Testing Time is the requested accommodation, please DO NOT SCHEDULE The
EXAM until you complete & submit the Test Accommodations Form.
Our proctoring partner will assist you with scheduling an exam - and you will receive additional
information on how to proceed, once you submit the form.
Scheduling or Rescheduling an Exam
Clicking on "Schedule" (when the button becomes active) will redirect the candidate to the PSI Bridge
Proctoring Platform.
The candidate can set the language of the Bridge Dashboard to their local language, so that all PSI
Instructions are presented in their local language.
Selecting your Local Language on the Bridge Dashboard will also ensure that any
Messages/Prompts or Violations issued by the Proctor during your exam, are issued in your Local
Language.
Candidates will be prompted to select the country & time zone in which they will be taking their exam, and
then they can select their preferred exam date and time.
Exams require a 24-hour lead time to allow for the preparation of the virtual machines, so the earliest
possible reservation date will be the following day.
Additionally, the latest possible date presented in the scheduling calendar is 90 days out.
Candidates have 12 months, from the date of exam registration, to schedule and take their exam (plus their
retake if eligible), or until their corporate subscription expires (whichever happens first).
The Expiration Date displayed in My Portal is the last date on which the exam can be taken.
After this date, the candidate's exam eligibility will be marked expired .
Cancelling or Rescheduling Your Exam
Candidates may cancel or reschedule their exam reservation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time
of their exam. Reservation changes are NOT POSSIBLE when 24 hours or less remain before the exam
start time.
If a candidate is a “No-Show” for their scheduled exam reservation, they forfeit the exam registration fees
(no refund) and they will not be eligible for a retake.
If the candidate needs to cancel or reschedule their exam, they may do so by logging into My Portal and
selecting the “Cancel or Reschedule” option.
They will be redirected to our Proctoring Partner's Scheduling site and they can reschedule (by selecting a
new date & time) or cancel their existing reservation.
If they Cancel their reservation, the candidate will receive an email from our Proctoring Partner (PSI)
confirming their cancellation.
Once cancelled, the "Schedule" button will become available again in the Exam Preparation Checklist.
Candidates will not be able to make changes to the exam reservation when 24 hours or less remain before
the start time of the exam.
Exam Rules and Policies
Candidates must start their exam no later than 30 minutes after the scheduled start time. If a candidate does
not start their exam within 30 minutes of the scheduled start time, they will be automatically marked as a no-
show and no refund or rescheduling will be allowed.
The Proctor cannot release the Exam until the Candidate has indicated that they have read, understood and
accept these rules and policies as presented in the The Linux Foundation Global Candidate Certification
and Confidentiality Agreement.
Candidates must also comply with the following rules and policies during the Exam:
Testing from public spaces such as coffee shops, stores, etc. is not allowed
No one other than the Candidate can be present in the room
Desk must be clear of all notes and electronics
Candidate is not allowed to communicate with anyone other than the Proctor during the Exam
Candidate is not allowed to read the questions out loud, to themselves, during the exam
Candidate is not allowed to leave their desk or step out of view of the webcam, unless they have been
granted specific permission by the Proctor
Candidate is not allowed to eat, drink (except clear liquids as per rule below), or chew gum
Candidate is permitted to drink clear liquids from a label-free clear bottle or a clear glass
Candidate is not allowed to wear any electronic device in their ears, on their face or on their body unless
medically necessary
Candidate must refrain from making excessive and/or repetitive noise
Candidate must refrain from covering their mouth and/or face
Candidate is not allowed to write or enter input on anything (whether paper, electronic device, etc.)
outside of the Exam console screen
Candidates must comply with any requests from the Proctor. If Candidate fails to comply, the Exam will
be terminated
Man pages
Click on your exam title to see the specific resources allowed during your exam:
Once a candidate clicks on "Launch Exam" in the PSI Dashboard, the "Verified Name" (from the
exam checklist) is sent to PSI and this is considered the Registered name for the exam session.
NO CHANGES ARE PERMITTED TO THE VERIFIED NAME ONCE YOU HAVE STARTED
THE LAUNCH EXAM PROCESS.
Candidates can click on the "Take Exam" button, located in My Portal, up to 30 minutes before the
scheduled exam time, to get redirected to the PSI Bridge Platform, and start the Self Check-In process.
Please note that depending on proctor availability, you may need to wait until your exam start time to launch
your exam.
If The Candidate has an issue with the "Take Exam" Button in the Exam Preparation Checklist,
they can connect directly to
training.linuxfoundation.org/psi-bridge-platform-login/ and login with their LF Account,
The candidate will be redirected (using SSO) to the PSI Bridge Dashboard, where you will see the Exam
you have scheduled, in the “Scheduled/In Progress” section
This can be done at any time BEFORE your scheduled exam time, but it DOES NOT LAUNCH
THE EXAM
Only run this check if you have adequate time before your scheduled exam time
You MUST RETURN to the Bridge Dashboard and click on "LAUNCH EXAM"
You can choose to check your system compatibility, by clicking on the “Click Here” button.
This will check that your system (e.g. Webcam, Microphone, Network bandwidth) is compatible with the PSI
Secure Browser.
You will need to go back to the PSI Bridge Dashboard (should still be open on another browser tab) and
select “Launch Exam”
Click on the “Launch Exam” Button (Shown in Green) and you will be prompted to Install Secure
Browser/Launch Exam.
If you receive an error and are prompted to Un-Install a previous version of the PSI Secure
Browser - please refer to the information below:
Windows 10: remove it from the Apps and Features or use the following instructions:
uninstall process for Windows
MacOS: move it to the trash, or use the following instructions: uninstall process for Mac
Ubuntu: Run the PSI Secure Browser Installer file again, and select the “Uninstall” option
Install Secure Browser or Launch Exam
This will download the latest version of PSI Secure Browser to your machine (unless it's already
detected)
When download is complete, the candidate will be prompted to install the Secure Browser
Once installed the Secure Browser will open in a new tab and start the Self Check-In process
If you want a better understanding of what to expect please review the PSI Online Proctoring
Experience video.
The Secure Browser will check for unauthorized hardware (e.g. dual monitors) or software applications
and will prompt the candidate to take the necessary action.
Agreement Screens: You will be prompted to accept the Linux Foundation Certification & Confidentiality
Agreement (previously presented at purchase AND when you scheduled your exam)
Photo ID Capture: You will be prompted to take a picture of a valid government-issued ID, with a
signature. The ID must match the the Verified Name, entered in the Exam Preparation Checklist
Photo Capture: You will be prompted to take a "selfie" which will be used to compare with the photo
shown on your Government issued ID.
If there are any issues with the assets you submitted, or with your testing environment the Check-in
Specialist will provide instructions on how to correct the problem.
When the Check-In Specialist approves your assets and confirms that your testing location meets the
requirements outlined in our exam rules and policies, they will assign you to a proctor who will start exam
release process.
The wait time to get assigned to a Check-In Specialist SHOULD NOT EXCEED 15 minutes.
Please use the LIVE CHAT button to connect with Technical Support if you have any issues.
Non-US candidates SHOULD NOT need to call the numbers provided - please use the LIVE
CHAT Feature
The candidate will have to perform the self check-in process again, to reconnect with a proctor and resume
their exam session.
Windows 10: remove it from the Apps and Features or use the following instructions: uninstall process
for Windows
MacOS: move it to the trash, or use the following instructions: uninstall process for Mac
Ubuntu: Run the PSI Secure Browser Installer file again, and select the “Uninstall” option
Please review the list of exam codes below, and click on the "ExamUI Information" to learn about the exam
environment that will be presented when your exam launches:
JSNAD JSNSD
ExamUI for OpenJS Exams
LFCT
ExamUI for LFCT
ExamUI: Performance Based Exams
This information applies to the following exams: CKA, CKAD, CKS, CFCD, CHFA,
LFCS
The Exam User Interface for Performance Based Exams is composed of two main areas:
Remote Desktop
The remote desktop is configured with all the tools and software needed to complete the tasks. This
includes:
Terminal Emulator
Firefox browser to access "Resources Allowed"
Virtual Keyboard
The ExamUI Tour will commence when the exam is first released to the candidate.
The exam timer will not begin until the tour ends (either when the candidate watches the complete tour,
or when the candidate clicks on the "Hide" option)
A virtual keyboard is provided on the remote desktop (available as an Icon on the remote desktop - or
within the Applications/Accessories menu).
In the event of special characters not functioning correctly on some international keyboards, please use
the virtual keyboard provided.
The candidate can click on "Reset Desktop" in the event of any technical issues loading the remote
desktop.
The timer bar indicates the testing time remaining (in minutes). A visible alert will be presented at
30mins, 15mins and 5mins remaining.
Terminal Emulator
The Content Panel (the panel on the left-hand side that displays the exam items) can be resized by
dragging the border that separates the content panel from the remote desktop.
Use Ctrl+F in the Firefox Browser to activate the "Find in Page" feature. A Find bar will appear at the
bottom of the window. (Please be sure to resize the Firefox browser so that you can see the full browser
window before using the “Find” feature.)
You can maximize the PSI Secure Browser to fit your full screen. You can also use the toggle to the right
of your video thumbnail in the Secure Browser tool bar to shrink the toolbar. This will allow more real
estate for the display of the ExamUI.
ExamUI: OpenJS Exams
This information applies to JSNAD & JSNSD
The workstation is Ubuntu 20.04 based and configured with all the tools and software needed to complete
the tasks. This includes:
A standard terminal is provided by the environment, but the Visual Studio Code or Webstorm Terminal may
also be used.
Clicking “Start Assessment” (in the top right-hand corner of the Assessment Introduction page) will
launch the JSNAD or JSNSD Application (the exam)
JSNAD & JSNSD Exam tasks instruct you to complete a step, or a series of steps, which may be
answered with Node.js core API’s or with any Node.js libraries/frameworks of the candidates choosing.
Instructions for each task, presented in the UI, are also made available in a readme.md file in each
project folder.
The terminal provided by the environment is GNOME Terminal, but the Visual Studio Code Terminal or
WebStorm may also be used.
Candidates can navigate between exam tasks by clicking on the “Previous” or “Continue/Next Task”
button.
Candidates can skip an exam task using the “Skip” button, and return to it later, by navigating to any
task in the left column.
Copy/Paste via keyboard does not always work and is a limitation of accessing VNC via browser. You
can, however, copy/paste using the mouse (right-click).
Candidates can click on “Assessment Review” to identify tasks that have been:
Completed
Not Viewed
Skipped
Once all the tasks have been completed and you are ready to end the exam, select "Complete
Assessment” from Assessment Review page.
ExamUI: Multiple Choice Exams
This information applies to all LF Multiple Choice Exams
The candidate can "Flag" an item for later review. This items will be highlighted on the "Review Screen"
and they can return to the item to update your answer.
When the candidate reaches the final multiple choice item, they will be prompted to click on "Review
Exam" the Review screen contains the "Finish Exam" button.
The Exam will end when the timer or expires, or when the candidate clicks "Finish Exam".
ExamUI: LFCT
The LFCT Examwill launch and display 2 "Read Me" Pages, that contain valuable information on how to
navigate the Exam UI and controls.
Page 2 of the ReadMe will load the ExamUI "Tour", which will provide instructions on how to navigate the
ExamUI.
Readme Page 1 of 2
Readme Page 2 of 2
When the candidate has reviewed the Readme pages, they can click "next" to view the first exam task.
Exam Item
Each exam task is completed in a dedicated Linux Virtual Machine (VM). These VM's run in the browser
as needed, and are not stored.
To reset the VM (in the event of any VM issue - click on the "Reset VM" button (Top Right Hand corner of
the VM)
Exam task instructions will display to the left of the Linux Virtual Machine
Some exam tasks contain pre-selected values or commands which have been pre-selected and
configured with a "click-to-copy" option. You can click on these values/commands and copy them into
the VM using this option.
When the candidate complete the task they must click on "Submit Response" before they can navigate
to the next or to a previous task.
If they attempt to navigate to another task before clicking "Submit Response", an error message will be
displayed instructing them to submit a response.
The candidate can click on "Flag Item to review" if they wish to flag an item to return to later.
The candidate can return to a completed task at any time, by clicking on "Previous" or clicking on task in
the Navigation menu.
They will be prompted with a message indicating "You have submitted a response" and if they want to
reattempt the task they can click on the "Reattempt Task" prompt.
A Navigation Menu is displayed on the Left Hand side of the task instructions.
Use the Navigation Menu to return to the ReadMe, return to Flagged Items, or quickly navigate between
tasks.
The candidate can END their exam by navigating to the final task - where the "End Exam" button will be
displayed.
Language
The grid, presented below, outlines the Linux Foundation exams where Exam objectives (i.e. exam tasks)
are available in English, Simplified Chinese, and/or Japanese.
When an exam is launched, the exam objectives (i.e. exam tasks) will default to the preferred language
setting detected in the Candidate’s browser. If the preferred language is not available for that exam then
the exam objectives default to English.
If exam objectives are available in multiple languages, the candidate may switch between available
languages during the exam by clicking on the “Language Control Dropdown List” in the Content Panel of the
exam console.
The following grid outlines the languages available in our Certification Exams:
Exam Title English (EN) Japanese (JP) Simplified Chinese
(ZH)
Linux Foundation ✔ ✔ ✔
Systems Administrator
Linux Foundation ✔
Certified Cloud
Technician
Linux Foundation ✔
Certified IT Associate
Certified Kubernetes ✔ ✔ ✔
Administrator
Certified Kubernetes ✔ ✔ ✔
Application Developer
Certified Kubernetes ✔ ✔ ✔
Security Specialist
Cloud Foundry ✔
Certified Developer
Certified TARS ✔
Application Developer
Certified Hyperledger ✔ ✔
Fabric Administrator
OpenJS Node.js ✔ ✔*
Application Developer
OpenJS Node.js ✔ ✔*
Services Developer
Prometheus Certified ✔
Associate
RISC-V Foundational ✔
Associate
* Must register for the Chinese-Only version of the JSNAD and JSNSD Exam
** Must register for the Japanese-Only version of the KCNA Exam
*** Must register for the Chinese-Only version of the KCNA Exam, sold by our LF APAC Partner
Exam Duration
The exam duration for LF Exams is outlined below:
LFCS 2
LFCT 2
LFCA 1.5
CKA 2
CKAD 2
CKS 2
KCNA 1.5
CFCD 3
CTAD 1.5
CHFA 2
CHSA 2
JSNAD 2
JSNSD 2
PCA 1.5
RVFA 1.5
Please note:
Requesting a break via the Pause Exam function will not stop the timer.
For exams using the PSI BRIDGE Proctoring platform, the Exam Timer is displayed within the Exam.
Policy on Warnings and Exam Terminations
Warnings
Certain kinds of violations will result in a warning from the Proctor, while certain other violations result in
IMMEDIATE TERMINATION OF THE EXAM WITHOUT WARNING.
If a warning is issued by the Proctor, the Exam will be paused until the Candidate is able to amend or
resolve the observed violation.
If a Candidate is found to be in violation of the same rule more than twice or is found to be in violation
more than four times on any combination of rules, the Exam will be terminated immediately.
Exam Terminations
The following actions result in IMMEDIATE TERMINATION OF THE EXAM WITHOUT WARNING:
Candidate steps out of view of the webcam for extended amount of time without the Proctor’s permission
Someone other than the Candidate is observed to complete or assist with any part of the Exam (e.g. by
using Remote Access Software such as LiteManager)
A discrepancy exists between the input on a Candidate’s screen and the Candidate’s observed activit
Exam Misconduct
Candidates engaging in Exam Misconduct, as defined below, will not be allowed to complete the Exam or
receive an exam result. Such candidates will also be barred from taking any other LF Certification Exam and
if applicable, will have any active LF Certification(s) withdrawn.
Refunds will not be given and rescheduling will not be allowed in the event of early termination of an exam
due to misconduct. Misconduct may, at any time, result in application of the sanctions specified in Section 7.
You shall adhere to all Program rules and shall not engage in any action to subvert, or attempt to subvert,
the examination process (“Exam Misconduct”) including but not limited to:
Failing to comply with the Exam Rules and Policies as listed in Section 4.2
Disseminating actual exam content by any means, including, but not limited to, web postings, formal or
informal test preparation or discussion groups, chat rooms, reconstruction through memorization, study
guides, or any other method, as well as providing exam content or information to any person not
expressly authorized by LF to receive such content or information (including but not limited to an LF
employee who is not part of the Certification Program staff)
Copying or otherwise transferring, modifying, making derivative works of, reverse engineering,
decompiling, disassembling, or translating any Exam or any part thereof
Seeking and/or obtaining unauthorized access to examination materials (this includes using
recollections of others or materials from previous administration of any Exam, a.k.a. braindump material,
and/or any unauthorized publication of Exam questions with or without answers)
Using falsified or altered certificates, score reports, or other documents or electronic media to
misrepresent Certification status
Allowing another person, or an organization in which you are not actively involved, to use your
certification credentials to obtain employment or promotions
Providing falsified information, documentation or statements as a means of a false identity, false address
or solicitation of someone to take a test on another's behalf
Giving, receiving, or obtaining unauthorized assistance during the examination or attempting to do so
Making notes of any kind during the Exam, whether on paper or via digital means (other than using the
notepad provided within the exam browser tab)
Possession of non-authorized items during the Exam
Accepting or providing improper assistance on your Exam or Exams taken by others (e.g. by using
Remote Access Software such as LiteManager)
Removing or attempting to remove Exam material (in any format)
Intentionally or otherwise repeatedly causing a disturbance of any kind during the Exam
Tampering with the exam server and its environment or attempting to use it for any function other than
taking an LF Exam
Modifying and/or altering the results and/or score report for this Exam or any other Exam record
For performance based exams (non multiple choice exams) there may be more than one way to perform a
task on an Exam and unless otherwise specified, the candidate can pick any available path to perform the
task as long as it produces the correct result.
The Linux Foundation (LF) and/or the Exam Proctoring Partner will review your exam record for scoring
accuracy, for evidence of possible misconduct, and for response patterns that may suggest that your scores
do not represent a valid measure of your knowledge or competence as sampled by the examination
(measurement error).
LF will use statistical analyses of exam data (“Data Forensics”) to identify patterns indicative of test fraud,
including cheating and piracy.
LF reserves the right to invalidate your exam score and certification result if review of your exam record
reveals scoring inaccuracies (attributable to LF or the Exam Proctoring Partner) or response patterns
indicative of possible misconduct or measurement error. If LF determines that an Exam score is invalid due
to issues that are beyond the control of the candidate, the candidate will be advised of options to retake the
Exam at no charge.
Exam Results - Pass
Upon passing an exam and if all other requirements for certification have been met, candidates will be
granted the certification relevant to the Exam.
Formal notice of successful certification from The Linux Foundation will be emailed within 3 business days
of meeting program requirements.
The email notification(s) will include a notice providing the candidate's Certificate ID number and how to
access and download a pdf copy of their certificate, and instructions on accessing additional Certification
Marks.
The Exam Preparation checklist in the portal will also display the candidate's achieved score and includes a
"View Certificate" option, that the candidate can click to view and/or download their certificate (.pdf file)
Exam Results - No Pass
If eligible per the Retake Policy, candidates who do not achieve a passing score on their first attempt will be
granted a retake.
Be sure sure to review the Retake Policy in full to understand eligibility and deadlines for the retake.
Instructions will be provided in the Exam Results notification on how candidates can claim their retake.
The Exam Preparation Checklist will display the No-Pass score, and if eligible the candidate can click the
"Claim Free Retake" button which will activate a new Checklist and a new exam eligibility.
The candidate will be advised that their current exam data will be stored as Exam History, and they will be
taken to the beginning of the exam scheduling process.
If the retake has been exhausted for this order, and if an additional order is available (if the candidate
purchased the certification exam more than once) then they will be prompted to "Claim their next order" from
this screen.
Though we cannot guarantee the availability of rescoring for an exam server, candidates who did not earn a
passing score may submit a request for an exam to be rescored, up to 2 days following the date on which
their score report was received. (Please note there is a fee involved, which must be paid via credit card.)
To request a rescore, you may submit a request to trainingsupport.linuxfoundation.org within 2 days
following the date on which the exam was taken.
If your exam is eligible for a rescore, you will be provided with information on rescore fees and instructions
on how to submit payment.
If the rescoring results in a change from No Pass to Pass on the exam, the rescoring fee will be refunded.
Retake Policy
For certification exams purchased directly from The Linux Foundation and not marked as SINGLE-
ATTEMPT or SINGLE, one (1) retake per exam purchase will be granted in the event that a passing score is
not achieved and Candidate has not otherwise been deemed ineligible for certification or retake.
Unless otherwise indicated in the exam order, the retake must be completed within 12 months of the date of
the original exam purchase.
The Exam Preparation Checklist will display the No-Pass score, and if eligible the candidate can click the
"Claim Free Retake" button which will activate a new Checklist and a new exam eligibility.
The candidate will be advised that their current exam data will be stored as Exam History, and they will be
taken to the beginning of the exam scheduling process.
If the retake has been exhausted for this order, or the deadline to complete the retake has passed, and if an
additional order is available (if the candidate purchased the certification exam more than once) then they will
be prompted to "Claim their next order" from this screen.
If the retake has been exhausted, or the deadline to complete the retake has passed, Candidates may
register and pay to take the exam again.
Repurchasing the Exam
Candidates have the option to repurchase the exam at any time from the course catalog
Only one exam order will be "active" for each purchased exam.
When the Active purchase has been used (the candidate has taken the exam and passed OR you has taken
both the first and second attempt and achieved "no pass") the Claim Your Next Order button will be
enabled in the exam checklist.
When you click the Claim Your Next Order button, the current exam data will be stored as a history and the
candidate a new Exam Preparation Checklist will be displayed in the candidate's portal.
Certificates and Certification
Certified Candidates (“Certificants”) receive a Certificate ID number and a certificate indicating the
successful completion of the requirements necessary to achieve the title indicated on their certificate.
Certifications expire 36* months from the date that a certificant successfully passes their certification exam,
unless revoked earlier for cause or certificant successfully completes certification renewal requirements.
* NOTE: CKS Certifications expire 24 months from the date that certificant successfully passes their
certification exam, unless revoked earlier for cause or certificant successfully completes certification renewal
requirements
The primary method for confirming the status of a certification is to use The Linux Foundation’s Certification
Verification Tool.
Certificate
The Linux Foundation Exam Certificates lists the following information:
Certificate ID number
Achievement Date (i.e. date Exam was passed
Certification Expiration
Certifications expire 36** months from the date that the Program Certification requirements are met by a
candidate.
**NOTE THE SPECIFIC EXPIRATION POLICY FOR CKS, LFCS, LFCE AND CFCD CERTIFICATIONS
**
LFCS
LFCS Certifications awarded on or after April 10, 2018 (based on LFCS v3 release) will expire 36 months
from the date that the program Certification requirements were met by the candidate. All other LFCS
Certifications will expire 24 months from the date that the Program Certification Requirements were met.
LFCE
LFCE Certifications awarded on or after June 10, 2018 (based on LFCS v3 release) will expire 36 months
from the date the Program Certification requirements were met by the candidate. All other LFCE
Certifications will expire 24 months from the date that the Program Certification Requirements were met.
CFCD
CFCD Certifications awarded on or after September 05, 2019 will expire 36 months from the date that the
Program certification requirements are met by a candidate, all other CFCD Certifications will expire 24
months from the date that the Program certification requirements are met, unless revoked earlier for cause of
Certificant successfully completes Certification renewal
Certificants must meet renewal requirements prior to the expiration date of their current certification in order
to maintain active certification. If certification renewal requirements are not completed before the expiration
date, certification will be revoked.
CKS
CKS Certifications will expire 24 months from the date that the Program certification requirements are met,
unless revoked earlier for cause of Certificant successfully completes Certification renewal
Candidates may keep their Certification valid by retaking and passing the same exam, prior to the
expiration of their certification.
The Certification will become valid for 3 years (2 years for CKS) starting on the date the exam is retaken and
passed.
Digital Badge
The Linux Foundation has partnered with Credly to provide candidates with a digital version of their
credentials.
Badges will be issued to everyone who passes one of our certification exams and can be used in email
signatures or digital resumes, as well as on social media sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
To submit a query on this verification tool, a user must enter the Certificate ID number and the Last Name
listed on the certificate of a successfully certified individual. (The Last Name must be entered exactly as
listed on the Certificate, including any special characters.)
The result for a successfully submitted query will include the full name of certificant, certification title and
status (active/inactive), and the date that the certification was achieved.
Certification Revokation
The Linux Foundation (LF) will revoke Certification if the candidate fails to comply with Certification renewal
requirements. In addition, LF may, in its sole discretion, revoke any and all Certifications the candidate may
have earned and permanently ban them from earning future Certifications under any of the following
circumstances:
If the candidate uses profanity, threaten to harm, bully or in any way harass any LF or Exam Proctoring
Partner employee or contractor (whether verbally or in writing, including through electronic
communications or external web postings);
If the candidate breaches the terms and conditions of The Linux Foundation Global Certification and
Confidentiality Agreement;
If LF determines, in its sole discretion pursuant to the Exam Misconduct and Professional Code of
Conduct Violations, that the candidate has undertaken or participated in Exam Misconduct as defined in
the Exam Misconduct Policy, or violated the Professional Code of Conduct.
If you have been convicted of a crime that LF deems, in its sole discretion, in any way harms or affects
LF’s or the Program’s reputation, goodwill or security; or
If you have lost or settled a civil case in which LF is the plaintiff and the claim arose from any alleged
damage to LF, its brand, goodwill or reputation.
Professional Code of Conduct
Candidates, before and after Certification, shall:
Access private information on computer systems only when it is necessary in the course of technical
duties. Maintain the privacy and confidentiality of information obtained in the course of your activities
unless disclosure is required by legal authority. Such information shall not be used for personal benefit
or released to inappropriate parties.
Provide service in your areas of competence, being honest and forthright about any limitations of your
experience and education. Maintain competency in your respective fields and agree to undertake only
those activities you can reasonably expect to complete with the necessary skills, knowledge and
competence.
Strive to ensure the necessary integrity, reliability, and availability of the systems for which you are
responsible.
Design and maintain each system in a manner consistent with the purpose of the system to the
organization.
Inform appropriate parties of the results of work performed including the disclosure of all significant facts
known to you that, if not disclosed, may distort the reporting of the results.
Not engage in deceptive financial practices such as bribery, double billing, or other improper financial
practices.
Obey all laws governing your work, unless, in exceptional circumstances, such compliance is
inconsistent with the public interest.
Promote no interest adverse to your employer or client, unless a higher ethical concern is being
compromised; in that case, inform the employer or another appropriate authority of the ethical concern.
Avoid entering into conflicting obligations with one client, such as obligations of confidentiality,
availability for work, or otherwise, which conflict with obligations to another client.
Not unlawfully discriminate or knowingly permit unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, national
origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability in: (1) hiring, promoting, discharging, or
otherwise determining the conditions of employment of any person; or (2) accepting or terminating
representation of any client.
Identify, document, and report significant issues of social concern, of which you are aware, in software or
related documents, to the employer or the client.
Ensure that you have no other professional or contractual obligations that are inconsistent with this
Code of Conduct.
Participate in any investigation of exam irregularities. Refusal to co-operate can be the basis for
revocation of certification or cancellation of eligibility.
Notify LF if they are unable to continue to perform the skills and competencies prior to their certification
expiration.
Appeals
In the event that sanctions are imposed pursuant to the Exam Misconduct and Professional Code of
Conduct Violations, or your exam score is invalidated pursuant to the Exam Misconduct Policy, you will
have thirty (30) calendar days from the date of your notification letter to file an appeal. If you believe you
have valid grounds for an appeal, please contact The Linux Foundation (LF) within the appeals period and
submit a Certification Appeals Submission Form as instructed in the notification letter. Incomplete
submissions will not be considered nor will requests be received after the thirty (30) calendar day period.
If The Linux Foundation determines that a request for appeal is filed within the allowable time, the
submission follows required guidelines for consideration and the original sanction and invalidation decision
is upheld by LF, such appeal and the information submitted by you will be forwarded to the LF Certifications
Appeals Committee for consideration. You may expect to receive a written response from LF within
approximately ninety (90) calendar days after the Appeals Committee meets. Decisions rendered by the
Appeals Committee are final.
Appeals Decision
You may expect to receive a written response from The Linux Foundation within ninety (90) calendar days
after the Appeals Committee meets. Decisions rendered by the Appeals Committee are final.
Copyright
All exam questions are the property of The Linux Foundation and are protected by copyright. Most national
laws provide severe civil and criminal penalties for the unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or exhibition
of copyrighted materials.