Our ACT® test day checklist covers everything you need to bring for a successful test day. From photo ID to snacks, we've got you covered!
Don’t want to leave anything to chance on your ACT ® Test day? Check out our ACT Test day checklist of essentials before you hit the road. And while you’re at it, make sure to read our list of no-nos because you definitely do not want to get caught with any prohibited items at the test center. Oh, and about that pesky ID requirement?! Don’t sweat it—our guide has got you covered with everything you need to know.
Keep this ACT test day checklist handy to prep for your big day!
Your admission ticket includes reporting location and other vital details. Remember to bring your printed admission ticket to the test center.
Carry an acceptable photo ID to enter the test center.
Bring an analog or digital watch to keep track of time. Bring a watch to pace yourself, but no smartwatch or alarm watch. An onscreen timer helps pace the computer-based ACT test. Smartwatches are not allowed in the test center.
Bring an ACT-approved calculator for the Math Test.
Carry some snacks to eat during break time. Keep them handy, but do not consume them during the test.
Now that you know what to bring on ACT test day, let’s run you through the items that you must not bring to the testing room:
If you forget an important item for the ACT test, it’s important to stay calm and assess your options. You may still be allowed to take the test or reschedule for another date. Speak with the test center supervisor and explain your situation. They may provide a solution or permit you to take the test with the materials you have.
Per the ACT testing policy, carrying a valid photo ID on test day is mandatory, along with the ACT admission ticket. Any ID you carry must be in the form of a hard plastic card. Electronic or paper IDs are not acceptable at the test center.
Make sure your ID fulfills the following requirements to be deemed acceptable for admission into the ACT test center:
You will not be allowed to test if you present any of the IDs listed below:
You will not be allowed to test if you carry photocopies or reproductions of IDs (even if the IDs are listed acceptable by the ACT). In addition, there are a few more IDs deemed unacceptable by the ACT:
Worry not! If you do not have any of the IDs mentioned above or you’re homeschooled, you can fill out the ACT Student Identification Form with a photo in PDF and get it attested by a school official or notary public (neither may be a relative). Carry this filled and certified document as proof of your identification on ACT test day.
If you’re testing outside of the U.S., its territories, or Puerto Rico, check out our guide for international students who are taking the ACT.
