DESIGNATED INFECTION CONTROL OFFICER - DICO-C EXAM FAQS
Q: What is the purpose of Specialty Certifications?
A: Specialty Certifications is a voluntary credentialing process designed to validate essential knowledge and judgment required for safe and competent practice. IBSC certifications provide designations to paramedic professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills essential to critical care paramedics.
Q: After I register for the computer-based (CBT) Exam, how soon can I test?
A: Once you register online, allow 3-5 business days to receive your eligibility number. This number will be emailed to you with your scheduling information. The IBSC has no control over testing center availability.
Q: How do I know if there is a testing center near me?
A: There are over 800 testing centers located throughout the US with at least one testing center in every state, and nearly 100 international testing sites. Click here to view a list of testing centers.
Q: How much does it cost to take the exams?
A:
Live Remote Proctor or Computer-Based (CBT)
- $300 (NAPSICO Membership)
- $400 (non-members)
IBSC-MEDBOX (Onsite)
- $300 (NAPSICO Membership)
- $400 (non-members)
Exam fees do not expire and are non-refundable.
Q: Where can I find the content outline for the DICO-C exam?
A: A content outline is posted under EXAM PREPARATION on this website.
Q: What are the requirements to sit for the DICO-C Exam?
A: Exam candidates must be an Emergency Responder working as ? or having the potential to work as ? an Infection Control Officer. Click here for a complete list of EXAM REQUIREMENTS.
Q: How do I know what material is covered on the exams?
A: Download the Candidate Handbook and review the Content Outline for more information.
Q: What textbooks should I use when preparing for the DICO-C -C exams?
A: All references are available Here.
Q: How soon before my certification expires do I need to recertify?
A: The IBSC recommends that you submit your recertification application at least 45 days and no more than four months prior to certification expiration date. A $125 processing fee will be applied if CE documentation is submitted less than 30 days prior to certification expiration date.
Q: When can I upload my CE documentation?
A: If recertifying thru CE, documentation can be uploaded throughout the three-year certification period.
Q: How do I recertify if my certification is expired?
A: You must retake the exam.
Q: What is the minimum passing score for DICO-C?
A: The DICOP-C exam has 100 scored with 25 unscored pilot questions. The raw passing score is 70 correct answers.
Q: How often is the exam updated?
A: The DICO-C exam is continuously updated with questions and content.? All exam forms meet a standardized examination construction process.
Q: How soon after testing will I receive my results?
A: You will receive your results within one hour of completing the exam.
Q: Will I know my exact score?
A: No. Upon passing the exam you will receive a passing score report. If you did not pass the exam, you will receive a score report indicating subject areas of relative strength and weakness. This score report is provided to assist you when preparing to retest.
Q: How long does it take to receive credentials after passing the exam?
A: Credentials are mailed from the IBSC office within three to six weeks of testing. You can expect to receive your pin and a patch from the IBSC office within three weeks. You will receive an email from the Award Group within four weeks of your test date with information to order your complimentary wallet card and certificate.? Please note, you can view/print an electronic copy of your certificate from your IBSC account (under My Documents).
Q: Is an electronic copy of my certificate available?
A: You can view/print an electronic copy of your certificate from your IBSC account (under My Documents).
Q: What if I don't meet the requirements to recertify by CE?
A: To renew an expired credential, you will need to retest.
Q: What if I need to cancel/reschedule my computer-based test date?
A: All cancellations must be handled through the Prometric website using your confirmation number and last name.
- If rescheduling more than 30 days before your originally scheduled examination appointment to avoid additional fees. Please reschedule directly via the Prometric Scheduling Portal.
- If rescheduling between 29 to 5 days before your scheduled exam date, reschedule via the Prometric Scheduling Portal. Additional fees apply.
- If rescheduling four (4) or less days prior to your appointment - you must first, cancel your appointment via the Prometric Scheduling Portal. Then contact the IBSC at +1.770.978.4400 to reschedule the exam. You must cancel with Prometric prior to contacting the IBSC. A $100 rescheduling or cancellation fee will apply.
For complete cancellation information, please see the Candidate Handbook.
Q: Do I need to register again in order to retest?
A: Yes. You may register online to retest for a date that is 30 days after your last testing date. Full registration fees apply.
Q: When I pass the exam, how long will the certification be valid?
A: The DICO-C certification is valid for a three-year certification. Certification renewal options include testing or renewal through continuing education.
Q: If I am not successful with the exam, how many times can I retest?
A: The candidate may attempt the same examination a total of three (3) times, using the thirty (30) calendar day rule. For additional information see our Retesting Policy: