Yes, today I was forced to pass it when I tried to self-assign a shop for which I was otherwise qualified. I passed it, entered the code and am waiting for it to be graded before I can take more shops.
I remember being asked to do so more than a year ago and blew it off.
Yes, I agree it is helpful for a beginner. However, for this seasoned shopper it seems overkill.
Happily shopping Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts and Connecticut