Acceptable Identification
Students must have photo ID on SAT® test day
Students taking the SAT must present an acceptable form of photo identification in order to be admitted to the test center. IDs will also be checked during the test. Identification must:
- Be current
- Include a recognizable photo
- Bear the student's name in English
- Match the name shown on the student's Admission Ticket
What is acceptable identification?
Acceptable identification includes:
- Driver's license
- State-issued ID
- School identification card
- Valid passport
- Student ID Form (that your school can prepare)
- Talent Identification Program ID/Authorization to Test Form (grades 7 and 8 only); photo not required
Preparing a Student ID Form
A counselor or student can prepare an Student ID Form for 2011-12 (.pdf/245K). Requires Adobe Reader (latest version recommended). This form must include a recognizable photo, and the school or notary seal must overlap the photo. If prepared by the school, the form should be printed on school letterhead. A student should sign the ID form in the presence of a counselor or principal or notary public. The student will also be asked to sign the ID form again at the test center. This form must be dated and is good for only one year.
Unacceptable identification
If a student does not bring acceptable ID to the test center, that student will not be permitted to test. Examples of unacceptable identification include:
- Social security card
- Credit card (including one with a photo)
- Parent's driver's license
- Birth certificate
- Expired passport
- Yearbook
- Written physical description of the student (without photo), even if written on school stationery and signed by a counselor or principal
Admittance to the test center does not mean that the identification presented is valid or that scores are reported. All reported cases of questionable identification are subject to review and appropriate action.
Home-schooled students
Home-schooled students who do not have acceptable photo ID should download and print the form, and take it to their authorized Homeschool Association or a notary public to have it signed and sealed.
Students testing in India, Ghana, Nepal, Nigeria, and Pakistan
Students must present a current and valid passport containing the student's signature and a current, recognizable photo. No other form of ID is accepted at these locations.
Adult Test-takers
Additional restrictions apply to test-takers who are 21 years or older on the day of the test.