Rules, comparisons and data

What should I do if I get a new passport after booking IELTS?

Tell your test centre before the test date. IDP's IELTS terms say you must inform the centre of any change to your identity document before the test; if you do not, you will not be allowed to take the test and will not get a refund or transfer. IDP Australia also asks you to bring both your old and new passports to registration on test day.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

Why the ID number matters

Your booking records one identity document, and you must bring the same document on test day. IDP's terms say that if you bring a different document you will not be allowed to take the test and will not be eligible for a refund or transfer. ielts.org gives the same warning: with the wrong ID, or none, you will not be able to sit (ielts.org).

What to do, step by step

The official sources below give the steps. In India, IDP lets you correct booking details through the Data Verification Sheet in your candidate login, uploading your passport copy; it says corrections are processed within 2 working days, and if the deadline has passed you email ielts.india@idp.com (IDP India FAQ).

StepSource
Tell the centre about the new document before the test dateIDP terms
Update your details with IELTS customer support or the centreIDP Australia
In India, correct details via the Data Verification Sheet (about 2 working days)IDP India
Bring both old and new passports on test day; no photocopiesIDP Australia

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IELTS for UKVI and name changes

For IELTS for UKVI, GOV.UK says the details used to book must match your passport or identity document. If your surname has changed you still book in the name on your document; to use the new surname you must change the document before booking (GOV.UK).

IDP Australia says that if you are issued with a new passport after applying, contact IELTS customer support or the test centre to update your details, and bring both passports to registration (IDP Australia). Detailed rules are set locally and can differ by country and test centre, so check your booking confirmation or ask your centre if anything here does not match what you were told.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take IELTS with my new passport if I booked with the old one?+

Only if you told the centre before the test date. IDP's terms say an unreported change means you cannot sit and get no refund or transfer.

Do I need to bring my old passport to IELTS?+

IDP Australia asks for both the old and the new passport at registration. Check with your own centre.

How long does IDP India take to update my passport details?+

IDP India says corrections made through the Data Verification Sheet are processed within 2 working days.

Will my TRF show my new name?+

The TRF is issued in the name on the ID used at registration. IDP's terms say a name changed after you receive the TRF will not be changed on it.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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