Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 11 November 2026
ID
For all PTE tests the ID should be your valid passport, and outside your country of citizenship a valid passport is the only acceptable ID. In your own country you may be able to use an alternative ID if your country is on Pearson's exceptions list. PTE Core also accepts a Canadian Permanent Resident Card in Canada (ID policy).
The ID must be the original, not expired, issued no more than 10 years ago and the one you selected when booking; your name, date of birth, citizenship and gender must match it exactly. Digital IDs, photos and photocopies (even certified) are refused. Without the required ID you are not admitted and lose the fee (ID policy). Details are in PTE ID requirements.
Lockers, and what is not allowed
At check-in staff take a photo, signature and palm scan and ask you to store all personal items in a locker (Pearson). You cannot open it until the test is finished (test centre rules).
| Item | In the test room? |
|---|---|
| Valid passport (or accepted alternative) | Yes, checked at check-in |
| Phone or other electronic device | No; locker |
| Digital watch | No; locker |
| Jewellery thicker than ½ cm (¼ inch) | No |
| Wallet, purse, hat, coat | No; locker |
| Books or notes | No |
| Food, drink, chewing gum | No eating, drinking or gum in the test room |
| Computer, keyboard, headset, notepad, pencil | Provided in your booth |
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Comfort aids, medicine and arrival
Some comfort aids, such as glasses and hearing aids, are allowed after a check; the list is in PTE test day rules. For tablets, inhalers and other medication, see can you bring medicine to PTE?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your test and sign in at reception; late arrivals cannot test and lose the fee. Breaking the rules can lead to revoked scores and a ban from future tests (test centre rules). The test itself is about two hours: see how long the PTE test is. Rules are applied locally, so check your booking confirmation or ask your test centre if anything here differs from what you were told.
Frequently asked questions
What ID do I need for PTE?+
Your valid passport, the one you booked with. Outside your country of citizenship, only a passport is accepted.
Can I use a photocopy of my passport for PTE?+
No. Pearson refuses digital copies, images and photocopies, including certified ones.
Do I need to bring a pen or pencil to PTE?+
No. Your booth has a notepad and pencil, plus the computer and headset.
Where do I keep my phone during PTE?+
In the locker at the centre. You cannot open it until the test ends.
Can I take water into the PTE test room?+
No. Eating, drinking and chewing gum are not allowed in the test room.
Keep reading
Related
- PTE test day rules
- PTE ID requirements
- Can you bring medicine to PTE?
- Free PTE mock test
- All 5704 guides
Guide updated on 11 November 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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