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What to Bring on PTE Test Day: Essential Checklist

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Walking into your PTE test without everything you need can be costly in both time and stress. This quick checklist ensures you bring the right identification, confirmation, and nothing that could get you disqualified. Whether you are taking the PTE Academic, PTE Core, or PTE Academic UKVI, knowing the rules helps avoid last minute panic.

Table of Contents

PTE ID Requirements: Passport & Accepted Documents

Your identification is the most important item on test day.

  • For most test takers, a valid passport is required. Your name, date of birth, and photo must exactly match your test booking.
  • The ID you present must be the same ID you selected when you booked the test. It must be in physical form. It cannot be digital!
  • If you cannot provide a passport make sure you check your country-specific ID rules here: PTE ID Exception
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Be aware: if you cannot produce the required ID when you arrive, you may not be allowed to take the test.

The full Pearson identification policy can be found here: Pearson ID policy

PTE Test Confirmation & Accommodation Documents

Bring either a printed or digital copy of your PTE booking confirmation email. This contains your test date, time, and location. It can help in case of check-in issues.

If you have been granted any special accommodations, make sure you bring:

  • Your approval email or letter from Pearson
  • Any related documents (doctor’s note, proof, etc.)

What Not to Bring to the PTE Test Center

Pearson test centers have strict policies about personal belongings. The following items are not allowed inside the test room:

  • Mobile phones
  • Bags, wallets, books, notebooks
  • Watches, smart devices
  • Food, drinks, gum
  • Jewelry (thicker than 1/4 inch), hats, jackets

These must be stored in a secure locker provided at the center. You should only bring your ID and confirmation to the check-in desk. For more information about what not to bring consult the official Pearson test-taker handbook.

PTE Test Center Arrival & Check-in Process

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to complete all security steps before your test begins.

During check-in, you will:

  • Show your valid ID
  • Sign a digital Test Taker Agreement
  • Go through biometric screening (including palm vein scan and digital photo)
  • Receive a whiteboard and pen for note-taking during the exam

Once checked in, you’ll be guided into the testing room. You’re not allowed to access personal items during breaks.

Conclusion

To avoid surprises and give yourself the best chance of success on PTE test day, make sure you’re fully prepared with the essentials:

âś… A valid, accepted ID (usually your passport)

âś… Your test booking confirmation (printed or digital)

âś… Any approved documents for special accommodations

❌ Leave behind personal items—phones, watches, bags, and food are not allowed

⏱️ Arrive at least 30 minutes early to complete check-in and biometric screening

Staying organized on test day helps reduce stress and allows you to focus entirely on your performance. Remember: if your ID doesn’t match your registration, or you arrive late, you may not be allowed to take the test.

Most importantly, you should arrive confident and ready to ace your test! Use Arno’s free PTE Vocabulary Builder to prepare and be ready for when test day arrives!