CPA Exam Day: What to Bring, What to Leave Behind
A complete checklist of what to bring to your CPA exam and what to leave at home or in your car. Avoid check-in delays and focus on your test.
Preparing for Exam Day Logistics
Test day anxiety starts long before you sit down at the computer. One of the easiest ways to reduce stress is eliminating uncertainty about logistics. Knowing exactly what to bring, what is prohibited, and what to expect at the testing center lets you focus your mental energy on the exam itself rather than worrying about check-in procedures.
Required Items: Do Not Leave Home Without These
Two Forms of Identification
You must bring two forms of valid, unexpired identification. Your primary ID must be a government-issued photo ID with your signature, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card. Your secondary ID must include your name and either a photo or signature. The name on your IDs must exactly match the name on your Notice to Schedule (NTS). Even a minor discrepancy, such as a middle name on one document but not the other, can cause problems at check-in. Verify the name match before exam day.
Notice to Schedule (NTS)
Your NTS contains the exam section, launch code, and candidate identification information needed to start your exam. While some testing centers can access your information electronically, bringing a printed or digital copy of your NTS ensures you have a backup if there are any system issues. Check the expiration date on your NTS well before exam day to confirm it is still valid for your testing appointment.
Confirmation of Appointment
Bring your appointment confirmation from Prometric. This includes the date, time, and location of your exam. While this is not strictly required for check-in, having it readily available helps resolve any scheduling disputes quickly.
What the Testing Center Provides
Scratch Materials
Prometric provides noteboards (laminated sheets) and markers or a whiteboard for scratch work during the exam. You cannot bring your own paper, pens, or pencils. The noteboards are collected at the end of the exam. If you run out of space during the exam, you can request additional noteboards from the test center staff, though you may need to exchange your used ones.
Calculator
An on-screen calculator is provided within the exam software. You cannot bring your own calculator. The on-screen calculator is a basic four-function calculator with memory, square root, and percentage functions. Practice using an on-screen calculator before exam day so you are comfortable with the interface. Clicking buttons with a mouse is slower than pressing keys on a physical calculator, so factor this into your time management.
Locker
Testing centers provide a small locker for your personal belongings. You will store everything except your ID and locker key before entering the testing room.
What to Leave Behind
Prohibited Items in the Testing Room
- Cell phones, smartwatches, and all electronic devices
- Bags, purses, wallets (store in your locker)
- Study materials of any kind
- Food and drinks (water may be stored in your locker for breaks)
- Coats, jackets, and hats (unless religious headwear)
- Jewelry beyond a wedding band (policies vary by location)
- Tissues (request from staff if needed)
- Earplugs (the center provides noise-canceling headphones if available)
Items to Leave in Your Car or at Home
Leave your study materials in the car. You will not be allowed to review them during breaks at most testing centers, and having them in the building creates unnecessary temptation. Leave unnecessary electronics at home to avoid the risk of accidentally bringing them into the testing room, which could result in exam invalidation.
Comfort Considerations
Clothing
Testing rooms are often cold. Wear layers that you can adjust during the exam. However, be aware that outerwear may be inspected or may not be allowed into the testing room depending on the center's policies. A light sweater or long-sleeve shirt is usually the best choice. Dress comfortably since you will be sitting for four hours.
Food and Water
Bring a water bottle and a light snack to store in your locker. During breaks, you can access your locker to hydrate and eat something. Choose foods that provide sustained energy without causing drowsiness, such as nuts, a granola bar, or fruit. Avoid heavy meals that may make you sluggish.
Medication
If you take prescription medication, bring it in its labeled container. You may need to show it to testing center staff. If you require medication during the exam, discuss this with the testing center in advance to understand their procedures.
Arrival Timing
Plan to arrive at the testing center 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. This allows time for check-in procedures, which include identity verification, palm vein scanning or other biometric registration, locker storage, and a brief orientation. Arriving late may result in being turned away, and your exam fees are typically not refunded for missed appointments.
The more routine you make the logistics, the more mental energy you preserve for the exam itself. Prepare everything the night before, confirm your route to the testing center, and aim for an uneventful check-in experience.
Practice What You Learned
Study with 1,200+ flashcards and 140 practice exams across all 4 CPA sections.