Wilderness Paramedic Certification (WP-C) Exam FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of Board Certification?
A: Board Certification is a voluntary credentialing process designed to validate essential knowledge and judgment required for safe and competent practice. IBSC certifications provide Board certification designations to paramedics and other healthcare professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills essential to their specialty area of practice.
Q: After I register for the computer-based (CBT) examination, 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 does not control 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: What is the exam fee?
A.
IBSC-MED (Onsite)
- $285 (Affiliate Membership)
- $385 (non-members)
Computer-Based (CBT)
- $285 (Affiliate Membership)
- $385 (non-members)
Exam fees do not expire and are non-refundable.
A.
Computer-Based (CBT)
- $285 (Affiliate Membership)
- $385 (non-members)
Exam fees do not expire and are non-refundable.
Q: Where is the WP-C content outline located?
A: A content outline is posted under WP-C content outline (pdf) on this website.
Q. Where can I find a complete list of WP-C review courses approved for recertifiction?
A. The complete list of WP-C approved review courses on this website. See IBSC Approved Review Courses.
Q. How do I get my course listed as an Approved Review Course?
A. Submission guidelines are posted on this website. See IBSC Approved Review Course Guidelines.
Q: Does the IBSC offer a wilderness paramedic course to prepare me for the board certification exam?
A: No. The IBSC offers valid testing, and therefore cannot conduct nor endorse any specific exam preparation course.
Q: What are the eligibility requirements for the WP-C Exam?
A: Candidates are required to provide proof of a valid, state, or national paramedic license. However, the exams focus on the knowledge level of accomplished, experienced paramedics working in the wilderness or austere environment. It is recommended that candidates have at least 3 years’ experience as a wilderness medicine provider and maintain a significant knowledge of current ACLS, PALS, and ITLS/PHTLS standards. Click here for a complete list of EXAM REQUIREMENTS.
Q: How do I know what material is listed on the exams?
A: Download the Candidate Handbook and review the Content Outline, also known as the Blueprint. The Candidate Handbook is available here.
Q: What textbooks should I use when preparing for the WP-C exams?
A: There are several textbooks available. All references are available Here.
Q. Where can I find a complete list of WP-C approved abbreviations?
A. The complete list of WP-C approved abbreviations can be found here: See IBSC Approved Abreviations.
Q: According to your guidelines for CE Recertification, I need to take a 16-hour review course from an approved provider. Do you have a list of approved review courses?
A: Not at this time. Since the exam in new, a recert program has not been developed.?When programs are approved, they will be listed on our website under RECERTIFICATION. Click here for list.
Q: What is the minimum passing score for WP-C?
A: The WP-C beta exam has 110 scored and 40 pilot questions. A passing score will be determined by December 22, 2022 using the Angoff Method.
Q: Does the exam use current American Heart Association standards?
A: Yes. Candidates are expected to maintain a significant knowledge of current ACLS, PALS, and ITLS/PHTLS standards.
Q: How soon after testing will I receive my results?
A: If you take the beta exam, you will receive your score by December 31, 2022.
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: 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: Can I switch the type of exam I registered for?
A: Yes. However, a $100 change fee will be applied.
Q: How do I register to take the WP-C Exam?
A: Online registration is available for beta testing of the computer-based exam.
Q: When I pass the exam, for how long will the certification be valid?
A: The WP-C board certification is valid for a four-year period. Certification renewal options include retesting or renewal through continuing education.
Q: If I fail 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: