Illinois PSI remote computer checklist
Will your computer run the Illinois PSI remote exam?
Check the software named in your PSI confirmation, your exact device and operating-system version, then the setup used for the appointment. A public camera or connection check is only part of that process. It cannot confirm that the exam software will install or that your full setup is ready.
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Which software and operating system should you check?
Use the method named in your confirmation. PSI's current system-requirements page covers both the downloaded Secure Browser and Chrome Extension; it does not establish that every program offers both.
| Platform | Listed version families | Limits to check |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | 10 or 11, 64-bit | No Snapdragon, S-Mode, Education or Enterprise |
| macOS | 14.x, 15.x, 26.x or 27.x | 13.x and 12.x are not listed as supported |
| Ubuntu | 22.04, 24.04 or 26.04 LTS | No 20.04 or non-LTS releases |
| ChromeOS | Chrome Extension only | Not compatible with Secure Browser |
Check the exact version in the computer's system information. Read the current official list again before booking or updating the operating system. A product name such as "MacBook" or "Windows laptop" is not enough to establish compatibility.
PSI excludes smartphones, virtual machines and ordinary iPad or Android tablets. Its Surface Pro exception requires a forward-facing camera. Do not buy or borrow a device based only on the exception; check its operating system, permissions and assigned software too.
What are the hardware and connection thresholds?
| Item | Minimum | PSI recommendation or condition |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB recommended; at least 50% free before launch |
| Display | 1024 x 768 | 1920 x 1080 or higher recommended |
| Upload and download | 750 kbps each | 3 Mbps or faster each recommended |
| Free installation space | 500 MB | Secure Browser only |
Use a camera that can complete the room scan and stay on, plus a working microphone. Test in the intended room and on the intended network. Close unrelated programs and pause household streaming or large transfers. Check the upload result as well as download.
Example: fast download, insufficient upload
A fictional result shows 100 Mbps download but 0.5 Mbps upload. The upload equals 500 kbps, below the published 750 kbps minimum. The strong download number does not fix that shortfall. This example explains the units; it is not a test of your connection or a prediction of exam-day performance.
PSI says VPNs and corporate firewalls can block testing. For a managed-device or security-software conflict, work with PSI and the device administrator on an approved solution. If you cannot use the assigned software with the access you have, resolve an alternative before test day.
Which checks should you complete before the appointment?
- Compare the device with the published list. Check its version, memory and software-installation access. Secure Browser needs installation and administrator access.
- Use the check linked by PSI. Its public hardware-and-connection tool checks camera, microphone and connection, not RAM or software installation.
- Follow the booked-exam tutorial. PSI directs Secure Browser users to the tutorial in My Tests after booking. Use your assigned method's instructions.
- Keep the setup consistent. After a device, account, network or operating-system change, allow time to repeat the relevant checks.
The PSI compatibility-page instructions expressly say this is not the test-day check. They also warn that OS detection may be wrong and an unsupported device can fail even after a pass. Check your actual version yourself. The Illinois booklet, June 24, 2026, printed page 6 separately directs candidates to check compatibility before testing.
Keep a record of the check you actually ran
Save which check you ran, the date, device and result. If the appointment later fails to launch, that record helps explain what you tested. It does not prove that every requirement was checked or that nothing changed afterward.
What should you do if a check fails?
- Save the exact message and identify whether it concerns the device, installation, permissions or connection.
- Follow the official instructions for the assigned testing method. Use approved administrator help for a managed computer.
- Contact PSI support with the error and exam reference. Ask which action remains before launch.
- If remote testing is not workable, ask about an available alternative while there is time to meet the appointment-change rules.
A support request does not change the appointment by itself. Check which booking is active and save any replacement confirmation. Before keeping remote delivery, also check the room rules and break policy; technical compatibility does not decide whether that format fits your needs.
Remote system questions
Can I use a work or school computer?
Check whether you are permitted and able to install the assigned software and grant its required permissions. PSI warns that managed computers can block the Secure Browser. Ask the device administrator before relying on one. If a restriction cannot be resolved, arrange a supported alternative or a test center while changes are still possible.
Does my Illinois exam require a second camera?
Do not infer that from a general PSI guide. The public requirements page describes second-camera setup conditionally. Follow the instructions for your booked Illinois exam and ask PSI if they are unclear. This article has not verified a private appointment or determined which camera arrangement it requires.
I passed a public check. Why might the exam still fail to launch?
A public check is not the test-day software check. A blocked installation, unsupported device, permission problem or changed setup can still prevent launch. Save the exact error and ask PSI about the booked method. Keep any support reference; an error report does not itself confirm a new appointment or fee relief.
Keep your study setup separate from the exam setup
You can download Pass Illinois for study on your phone if that fits your routine. The remote licensing exam uses the computer and testing software named by PSI. Complete its technical checks separately from your question practice.