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United Kingdom · English test

What to bring to your IELTS test

Bring the same identity document you used when you booked. That’s the one thing you can’t forget: with the wrong ID, or none, you won’t be allowed to take the test. For IELTS for UKVI, the ID must be an original, valid document with your photo that matches your booking details.

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Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

Your ID

When you book, you enter the details of an identity document, usually your passport. The identification document number the form asks for is that document’s number. Bring that exact document on the day. If your passport has changed since you booked, contact your test centre before test day.

Your test centre’s booking confirmation lists the ID it accepts. Read it, because rules can differ between centres and countries.

Extra rules for IELTS for UKVI

GOV.UK sets the ID rules for UK visa tests. Your document must be:

  • Current and valid
  • The original, not a photocopy
  • Showing your photo
  • Matching the details you gave when you booked
GOV.UK: ID rules for SELT test day ↗

What you can and can’t take in

  • Water in a clear, see-through bottle is allowed.
  • Food isn’t allowed in the test room, so eat beforehand.
  • Phones, watches and other belongings stay outside the room. Every test room has a clock on the wall.
  • Listening, Reading and Writing run for 2 hours 40 minutes with no breaks, so go to the toilet before you start.

Taking IELTS Online?

IELTS Online is only for IELTS Academic. You’ll get an email about software to download before the day. Check your computer meets the system requirements, and have a phone or tablet with a camera ready for the room scan. Log in early: if you’re late, you might not be allowed to take the test.

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Everything else, in one place

OverviewIELTSQuestions and pass markHow many questions are on IELTS, and what’s the pass mark?ScoringHow IELTS band scores workBook IELTSHow to book your IELTS test in the UKCostHow much does IELTS cost in the UK?Online testCan you take IELTS online?ResultsIELTS results: when they come out and how to check themWriting testIELTS Writing: Task 1 and Task 2Speaking testIELTS Speaking: the three parts and the cue cardListening testIELTS Listening: four parts, 40 questionsReading testIELTS Reading: Academic and General TrainingAcademic or General Training?IELTS Academic vs General TrainingIELTS for CanadaIELTS for Canada: CLB levels and Express EntryTest dates and centresIELTS test dates and test centresLife Skills (A1, A2, B1)IELTS Life Skills: A1, A2 and B1One Skill RetakeIELTS One Skill Retake: resit just one sectionOfficial samplesOfficial IELTS sample test questionsPractice testIELTS practice testWhere to learnWhere to prepare for IELTSStudy plannerIELTS study planner
Sources: IELTS, GOV.UK and 1 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.