Taking the EA Exam Online With PSI: What to Verify in 2026

3 min read

Last reviewed: July 16, 2026.

Older guides describe Prometric ProProctor, but Prometric stopped administering the EA exam on March 1, 2026. Remote candidates now use PSI and should not assume the old software, room-scan instructions, break rules, or equipment requirements still apply.

What the IRS currently confirms

  • PSI administers the 2026 Special Enrollment Examination.
  • International testing begins September 1, 2026 and is remote-only for this cycle.
  • The examination is closed book.
  • Each part has 3.5 hours of exam time and four hours of seat time, including a tutorial, survey, and two scheduled 10-minute breaks.
  • An original, unexpired government-issued photo ID must match the first and last name used to schedule.
  • Military IDs are not accepted for remote appointments.
  • Water is allowed remotely only in a clear or transparent container with a lid or cap, with labels removed and the container available for inspection.

IRS EA examination FAQ

What to verify with PSI before exam day

Use the Candidate Information Bulletin and system check linked from the PSI scheduling portal to confirm:

  • supported operating systems and browser or application requirements
  • webcam, microphone, bandwidth, and monitor rules
  • permitted room setup and desk items
  • check-in and room-scan procedure
  • break, restroom, and disconnection rules
  • how accommodations affect remote delivery

Run the current system check on the exact computer and network you plan to use. A Reddit report or archived Prometric checklist cannot establish PSI's current policy.

Choosing remote or in-person testing

Remote delivery can remove travel time, but it adds dependence on hardware, connectivity, and room compliance. An in-person center transfers more of that setup to the testing site. Neither format changes the content, fee, passing standard, or three-year carryover window.

Start from the IRS become-an-EA page so you reach the current PSI portal and bulletin.

Practice under timed conditions on EADojo.

Related: EA Exam Day at PSI · Schedule With PSI · EA Exam Accommodations

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Keep building this concept · 3 related guides
Becoming an Enrolled Agent From India: The 2026 Path, Costs, and Real Career OutlookIndia produces more EA candidates than any country outside the US. Remote testing is now available. Over 1,500 US tax outsourcing firms operate in India. Here's the real path, what it costs, and what the job market actually looks like.PSI Is Taking Over the EA Exam From Prometric: What Changed and What Didn'tEffective March 1, 2026, the EA Special Enrollment Exam is no longer administered by Prometric. PSI Services is the new vendor. Here's what actually changes for candidates.EA Exam at PSI: 2026 Test-Day ChecklistTaking the Enrolled Agent exam at PSI? Check the current fee, ID rules, timing, breaks, results, remote-testing requirements, and what to bring.
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