The ACT has implemented a number of security measures to maintain the integrity of the exam. One such measure is requiring test takers to show a photo ID. If you don't have an appropriate ID with you on test day, you may not be allowed to take the ACT.
In this article, I'll detail all of the ACT photo ID requirements. What's an acceptable form of ID? What should you do if you don't have a photo ID? Read more to find out.
A photo ID is required to confirm your identity and registration. In the past, there have been issues with cheating—students have taken the ACT for other people. The information and picture on your photo ID will be checked against the info and photo on your admission ticket to ensure that everybody takes their own test.
If any of the information doesn’t match or you don’t have an acceptable ID, you won’t be allowed to take the test.
Your photo ID must meet the following requirements. These rules also apply for international students and students 21 and older.
Your ID can’t be expired and it must be an official government-issued or school ID. If you use a school ID, it has to be from the school you currently attend.
You can’t show a photocopy or picture of your ID. If you use a school ID, it must be in hard plastic card format. You can’t show a paper or electronic ID.
Your name and the text on your ID must be written in English.
Don't photocopy your ID. You need to bring the original.
Not an acceptable ID
Any student that doesn't have an acceptable ID can use the Student ID Form. A current photo must be attached to the form in the area indicated before the form is authenticated. The form will be used to verify your identity like a photo ID.
On the form, you just need to provide basic biographical information like your name, gender, birthdate, and current school.
If you need to use the Student ID Form, talk to your counselor or any school official who can help you. You'll need a signature from a school official for the form to be valid.
If you're homeschooled or not in school, the form must be notarized and signed by an official notary.
If you plan on using the Student ID Form as your ID, I recommend getting it filled out and completed as soon as you register, but you just need to have it correctly completed and with you on test day.
All of the ID requirements apply to the Student ID Form. The photo you use on your ID form must match the photo on your Admission Ticket and your appearance on test day. You must bring the original Student ID Form to be admitted to the test center.
The name on your photo ID must completely match the name on your admission ticket. When you’re registering, make sure you submit the name exactly how it appears on your ID. Don’t use a nickname or shortened version of your name.
If you submit a name that’s different than the name on your photo ID when you register, you can change the name on your ticket so that it matches your ID. You can make changes by logging into your ACT web account and selecting “Make changes to your registration.” Or you can call ACT at 319-337-1270. You must make any necessary changes before the late registration deadline.
On test day, your ID will be checked multiple times. Make sure you have it with you from the moment you arrive at the test center. Typically, your ID will be checked when you first arrive. Then, you’ll have to show your ID before you enter the room where you’ll take your test. And when you return to the room after breaks, you may have to show your ID again.
Don’t put your ID in your backpack. Keep it on you. Wear something with pockets, and have your ID with you throughout test day.
Keep your ID with you on test day.
If you have any other questions about the ACT, you may want to check out our article on answers to frequently asked ACT-related questions.
If you're applying regular admission to college, find out when is the last ACT you can take before the deadline.
