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Vancouver +1(604) 628-5783
February 18, 2026
If you’re on the path to becoming a licensed professional engineer, geoscientist, or technologist in Canada, you’ve likely heard of the National Professional Practice Examination (NPPE). It’s a key step toward licensure that tests core knowledge about professional practice, ethics, law, and responsibilities in your profession — and understanding how it works can make all the difference when you’re preparing to write it. (NPPE)
At Ashton Testing Services (ATS) in Vancouver, we’re proud to partner with Yardstick, the Canadian testing vendor behind the NPPE’s delivery — to provide proctoring support for this and other national exams. Here’s a clear, practical guide to what Yardstick and the NPPE are, how the exam works, and how you can be ready on exam day.
The National Professional Practice Examination (NPPE) is a computer based test used by many Canadian engineering and geoscience regulators as part of the licensure process. Its purpose isn’t to test technical engineering skills, but to confirm that you understand the ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities of practicing in your field.
The NPPE is required in most Canadian provinces and territories as part of the licensing process for engineers and geoscientists. Many regulators use the exam as a final step before granting professional status. (NPPE)
The NPPE is administered using a platform known as Meazure Learning, which is the result of a partnership between Yardstick, a Canadian computer based testing vendor, and ProctorU, an online proctoring service.
Yardstick is responsible for delivering the NPPE’s testing platform, scheduling exam sessions, and coordinating the proctoring experience, whether that’s in a test centre or remotely under supervision. When you register for the NPPE, Yardstick handles key parts of the exam process, including booking confirmations and test administration logistics. (egbc.ca)
At ATS, we support professional candidates who choose to write their exams in person, providing a proctored environment that aligns with Yardstick’s delivery standards.
The NPPE focuses on how professionals should behave and make decisions once they’re licensed. It tests topics such as:
These areas are defined in the NPPE’s official exam blueprint, which outlines the knowledge expected of candidates.
The exam typically consists of 110 multiple choice questions administered over 2.5 hours. Each question has four options with one correct answer, and guessing is not penalized.
Preparing with the blueprint or practice questions early can help you feel confident and reduce surprises on exam day. (NPPE)
Preparation for the NPPE isn’t just about reading textbooks; it’s also about familiarizing yourself with the type of questions you’ll see and building your comfort with the computer based testing environment. (NPPE)
One of the best ways to do that is through practice tests and exam simulations, many of which are made available through platforms that use Yardstick’s technology. These practice tools let you experience a simulated version of the real exam interface, helping you build exam day confidence. (NPPE)
Structured prep, whether through guided courses or self study, also gives you the chance to focus on key areas like law, ethics, and professional obligations before you sit the real exam.
When exam day arrives, knowing what to expect can make all the difference. Because the NPPE is proctored, either remotely with a live proctor or at a supported test centre, you’ll want to:
Whether you’re an aspiring engineer, technologist, or geoscientist, taking the NPPE is a major step forward in your professional journey. With the right preparation and a good understanding of how the exam is delivered, you’ll be in a stronger position to succeed.
The NPPE isn’t just a hurdle, it’s a professional milestone. It reflects your understanding of the responsibilities that come with your future licence and signals your readiness to uphold public trust and professional standards.
At Ashton Testing Services, in downtown Vancouver, BC, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from providing a reliable proctored environment in partnership with Yardstick to helping you approach exam day with confidence.