Internet Exams Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Internet exam?
An Internet exam is an online exam given by the State Personnel Board (SPB). The Franchise Tax Board currently uses Internet exams for the following classifications:
- Compliance Representative
- Information Technology (IT)
- Tax Auditor
Who can take an Internet exam?
Anyone who meets the minimum qualifications of the classification being tested may apply for an Internet exam. You do not have to be a State employee. See the
exam bulletin or SPB class specification to see if you meet the minimum requirements.
Where can I take an Internet exam?
You can go to the Online Exam page on the SPB Website.
When are Internet exams available?
The following exams are available on a continuous basis:
- Compliance Representative
- Tax Auditor
- Tax Counsel (This exam is hosted by the Board of Equalization, but used by FTB.)
IT exams are given periodically. Check our current exams or contact our IT recruiter for upcoming exam dates.
What are the exam components?
The exam questions are based on experience and education. They are meant to gauge your knowledge and experience as they relate to the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the classification. When answering the questions, be sure to reference ALL of your experience - life and work, whether paid or volunteer.
The exams consist of:
- Approximately 100 questions.
- Administrative pages, such as:
- Standard Application (STD 678)
- Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) information
- Location and work preferences
At the end of the exam, you will be asked to complete a recruitment survey.
Allow approximately 90 minutes to complete the exam. We strongly recommend that you download the questions, prepare your responses, then return to the Internet to complete the exam.
When will I know my score?
You will receive your test score as soon as you complete the exam. However, it may take up to a week for your exam ranking to update on the hiring list since SPB updates the exam list every Tuesday.
How long will I remain on the eligible list?
You will remain on the list for one year from the date you complete the exam.
How often can I take the Internet exam?
You are eligible to take the exam every nine months. Since you remain on the list for twelve months, there may be a window of time in which you appear on the list twice. However, the system will remove your earlier score after 12 months.
Is there a limit on the number of times I can take an Internet exam?
No. However, you may not take the same exam more than once every nine months.
After passing the Internet exam, will FTB contact me when there are job openings?
No. Once you have passed an Internet exam, you must apply for current job openings. You can subscribe to be notified of job openings at FTB
and SPB.
How do you select candidates for hiring interviews?
We select candidates for hiring interviews by reviewing applications, resumes, and referrals.
Is a State application (STD 678) required to participate in the Internet exam?
Yes. The State application is required and included as the first component of the Internet exam.
Where can I find out more information on FTB’s hiring process?
See How to Apply.
Who can I contact if I have more questions on the Internet exam?
Contact a recruiter.