Tests or measures are, for the most part, copyrighted and cannot be used or copied without permission, unless it's in the public domain, or it's explicitly stated that use is allowed without permission.
In general, the permissions process involves the following steps:
The PsycTESTS database is a good resource for finding information regarding permissions in the Abstract/Details under "Permissons" :
(Click here to view in PsycTESTS)
Other instruments are licensed and the license accompanying the instrument will indicate the manner in which the instrument may be used.
Sometimes you will find instructions regarding permissions within the test itself, or on the webpage if the measure is linked on a website.
Some instruments do not clearly state usage permissions. If no information about usage is available, then the next step is to identify the copyright holder. This could be an individual, a company, an organization, or the U.S. government. Locating the copyright holder can sometimes be difficult, or takes time.
Identify the rights that you will be asking for from the copyright holder.
Be specific about what you will be doing with the copyright holder's work. The answers to these questions will determine the rights for which you will want to obtain permission.
Email the company, individual, or organization that owns the copyright for the instrument. For commercially published tests, some publishers provide a website form to fill out to obtain permissions. Be specific in your request. In some cases, authors or publishers may either not respond to requests or refuse to grant permission to use their work. Therefore, it is important to select a few potential tests or measurements. The Chicago School librarians can certainly assist with searching for alternate test instruments.
Ask for permissions in writing; save copies of the emails and granted permissions.