Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Allowed and not allowed
Drawn from ETS's test centre day page, its testing policies FAQ and the Information Bulletin.
| Item | In the testing room? |
|---|---|
| Valid, acceptable ID | Yes; ETS recommends bringing two forms |
| Phone, watch or other electronic device | No; store it with your belongings, switched off |
| Your own headphones or earbuds | No; the centre gives you headphones |
| Your own paper or pens | No; the centre provides pencils and scratch paper |
| Food or drink | Only with an approved health accommodation |
| Jewellery, hair accessories, face masks | Remove before entering; wedding and engagement rings can stay |
Arriving and checking in
Sign in to your ETS account 24 hours before to check for changes to the time or building (ETS). Arrive at least 30 minutes before your start time; if you arrive or check in after the start time, you cannot test and the fee is not refunded (bulletin).
If the name on your ID does not exactly match your ETS account, you will not be allowed to test and the fee is not refunded (ETS). See TOEFL ID requirements for accepted documents.
Check-in can include photographs or video, fingerprints, signature comparison and voice or photo biometrics, and you may be checked with a hand-held metal detector. Staff may inspect clothing, ask you to empty pockets or briefly remove glasses; you can ask for a same-gender staff member or a screened area, which centres try to arrange (bulletin).
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Scratch paper rules and young test takers
You may only write on the scratch paper provided, you can ask for more once you have used and returned all your pages, and you must hand it all back at the end (bulletin). Using scratch paper before the test or to prepare Writing responses ahead is a violation.
If you are 15 or younger, ETS suggests coming with a parent or authorised adult aged 18 or over, who signs a release form at the centre. Other friends and relatives cannot wait at the centre (bulletin). Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from ETS or Duolingo.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring water into the TOEFL test room?+
No, unless you have an approved health accommodation.
Can I wear a watch in the TOEFL?+
No. Watches count as devices and must stay out of the testing room.
How early should I arrive for TOEFL?+
At least 30 minutes before your start time. Arriving after the start time means no test and no refund.
Does the TOEFL centre give headphones?+
Yes. Personal headphones and earbuds are not allowed.
Should I bring two IDs to the TOEFL?+
ETS recommends it, in case the administrator questions the first ID you present.
Keep reading
Related
- TOEFL ID requirements
- TOEFL Home Edition check-in
- TOEFL registration deadline
- TOEFL exam pattern 2026
- All 3112 guides
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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