Examination Practice Questions And

Illinois Procurement Specialist Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary goal of public procurement in Illinois?
• To maximize supplier profit
• To reduce the number of contracts
• To ensure fair, transparent, and cost-effective acquisitions
• To increase administrative workloads

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Public procurement emphasizes fairness, competition,

transparency, and cost-effectiveness to protect public funds.

• Which document formally initiates a procurement requirement? 1 / 4

• Invoice
• Purchase requisition
• Bid protest
• Delivery receipt

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A requisition officially communicates the need and authorizes

the procurement process.

3. Competitive sealed bidding is most appropriate when:

• The requirement is ambiguous
• Price is the primary factor
• Sole-source procurement is preferred
• Negotiation is required

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Sealed bidding works best when specifications are clear and

price is the critical evaluation factor.

4. A Request for Proposal (RFP) is used when:

• Only price matters
• Requirements are simple
• Multiple solutions may exist for the need
• Emergency procurement is required 2 / 4

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: RFPs allow evaluation of multiple approaches when

specifications are not fully defined.

• What is the Illinois Procurement Code’s main purpose?
• To eliminate competition
• To regulate private sector purchasing
• To ensure integrity and accountability in state procurement
• To reduce vendor participation

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The Procurement Code establishes rules ensuring ethical and

transparent public purchasing.

6. A sole-source procurement must be:

• Hidden from the public
• Justified and approved
• Based on vendor preference
• Avoided at all costs

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Sole-source purchases require written justification and proper

approval because they bypass competition.

• / 4

• What is the purpose of a procurement plan?
• To delay purchases
• To outline anticipated purchasing needs
• To eliminate competitive bidding
• To prioritize vendor demands

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Planning helps agencies forecast needs, allocate budgets, and

schedule procurement activities.

• Which procurement method is best suited for an immediate threat to

health or safety?

A. RFP

• Invitation for Bids (IFB)
• Emergency procurement
• Multi-step bidding

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Emergency procurement allows immediate action when delays

could endanger people or property.

9. A specification that is overly restrictive may:

• Promote competition
• Increase bidder pool
• / 4