What to Expect on CP Exam Day
A complete guide to the NALA Certified Paralegal exam day experience at PSI testing centers, from check-in to results.
Before exam day
- Confirm your appointment. Double-check the date, time, and location of your PSI testing center appointment at least 48 hours before your exam.
- Know the route. Drive to the testing center the day before if possible. Know the parking situation and exactly how long it takes to get there.
- Prepare two forms of ID. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport). A second form of ID may be required. Your name must exactly match your NALA registration.
- Rest the night before. Avoid cramming the night before the exam. A good night's sleep improves recall, focus, and time management far more than last-minute studying.
- Light review only. If you must review, scan your cheat sheets briefly. Do not attempt new material.
At the testing center
Check-in process
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. You will present your ID, have your photo taken, and store all personal belongings in a locker. No phones, watches, notes, or other materials are allowed in the testing room. The proctor will provide scratch paper or a whiteboard and a pen.
The testing environment
PSI testing centers provide individual computer workstations separated by partitions. The room is monitored by cameras and proctors. You will have access to basic on-screen calculator functions if needed. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs are usually available upon request.
What to bring
Valid government-issued photo ID, your confirmation email or appointment number, and a light snack/water for after the exam. Leave everything else in your car or at home. Testing centers provide all necessary materials.
The exam itself
120 questions, 2 hours
The CP exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 2 hours (120 minutes). That is exactly 1 minute per question. All questions are weighted equally.
Question format
All questions are multiple-choice with four answer options (A, B, C, D). Questions may include fact patterns, scenario-based problems, or direct knowledge recall. There is no penalty for wrong answers.
Flagging and review
You can flag questions to review later. If you are unsure of an answer, make your best guess, flag it, and move on. Return to flagged questions only if time permits after completing all 120 questions.
No breaks
The 2-hour exam does not include a scheduled break. You can request a bathroom break, but the clock does not stop. Manage your time carefully and minimize unnecessary interruptions.
Time management strategies
- 1.Pace yourself at 1 minute per question. After 30 questions, you should be at the 30-minute mark. After 60 questions, at the 60-minute mark. Check the clock at these intervals.
- 2.Do not spend more than 90 seconds on any question. If you are stuck, eliminate what you can, make your best guess, flag it, and move on.
- 3.Answer every question. There is no penalty for guessing. Never leave a question blank. If you run out of time, fill in your best guess for remaining questions.
- 4.Trust your first instinct. Research shows that first answers are correct more often than changed answers. Only change an answer if you have a clear reason to do so.
- 5.Save 10-15 minutes for review. If you finish with time remaining, use it to review flagged questions and double-check any answers you were unsure about.
After the exam
Results are not immediate. NALA processes CP exam results and notifies candidates by email. The turnaround time varies but is typically several weeks. Your score report will indicate pass or fail and may include performance breakdowns by content area.
If you pass: Congratulations! You will receive your CP certificate from NALA. Certified Paralegals must maintain their certification through continuing legal education (CLE) credits.
If you do not pass: Review your score report to identify your weakest content areas. Develop a targeted study plan focused on those areas and schedule your retake. Many successful CPs passed on their second or third attempt.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the CP exam?
The CP exam is 2 hours (120 minutes) long and contains 120 multiple-choice questions. This allows exactly 1 minute per question, so time management is critical.
Where do I take the CP exam?
The CP exam is administered at PSI testing centers across the United States. You select your preferred testing center location when you schedule your exam through NALA.
Can I use a calculator on the CP exam?
PSI testing centers may provide an on-screen calculator. However, the CP exam primarily tests legal knowledge and analysis, not mathematical computations. Check with NALA for current calculator policies.
What happens if I arrive late to the CP exam?
If you arrive late, you may be denied entry and forfeit your exam fee. PSI testing centers typically have a strict late arrival policy. Always plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early.
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