Know before: ID rules for exam day

Know before: ID rules for exam day

Having the right ID is just as important as being prepared for the exam. This quick guide covers ID requirements for Cambridge English, IELTS, TCF, Goethe and Linguaskill — helping you and your students avoid surprises on exam day.

Know before: ID rules for exam day

In this article, you will find everything you need to help your students feel fully prepared for exam day — from Cambridge English exams to IELTS, TCF, and Linguaskill. We have put together a clear, exam-by-exam overview to save you time, avoid surprises, and help your learners bring the right ID to the right exam.

Same for all exams: General Requirements

No matter which exam your students are taking—TCF, Cambridge English, Goethe, IELTS, or Linguaskill—the ID requirements are consistent across the board.

On exam day, each student must bring an original, valid, and unexpired ID. Photocopies or digital versions (like photos on a phone) are not accepted.

The ID must clearly show:

  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • A recent, recognizable photo
  • Signature

Please note

Candidates who do not meet the ID requirements will not be allowed to sit the exam.


The most common ID-related questions

Q: Can I use a photocopy of my ID?

No, only original, valid, and unexpired identification documents are accepted. ​

Q: What happens if I forget my ID on exam day?

Candidates who do not present valid ID will not be allowed to take the exam. ​

Q: Are there any exceptions for minors without valid ID?

For Cambridge exams, candidates aged 17 and under without valid ID can use a completed Candidate Identification form with two attached photographs. ​ For other exams, there are no exceptions for minors.

Q: What if my ID is expired, damaged or lost before the exam?

Candidates without valid ID will not be allowed to take the exam. If your ID is expired or lost, you should obtain a temporary passport or valid ID before the exam date.

Q: Do I need to bring the same ID I used during registration? Yes! For IELTS or Linguaskill, it is mandatory to bring the exact same ID document you used when registering for the exam. This means the same document type and ID number.


Exam-specific ID requirements

ID regulations | TCF, Cambridge English, Goethe, IELTS, Linguaskill | Swiss Exams

Bonus tips: Before and during the exam

Preparation and presentation

Candidates are advised to prepare their identification documents well in advance of their exam date. The following steps can help ensure a smooth process:

  • Verify the expiration date of the ID to ensure it is valid on the exam day.
  • Check that all personal details and the photograph are clearly visible and match the details provided during exam registration.
  • Ensure the ID is in good condition without significant damage or wear that might compromise its readability.
  • IELTS or Linguaskill, it is mandatory to bring the exact same ID document you used when registering for the exam.

On the exam day, candidates should keep their ID readily accessible and present it promptly upon request by the examination staff. Failure to present acceptable identification may result in disqualification from the exam.

Security measures

To safeguard the examination process, Swiss exams employ several security measures. These include:

  • Photographic Verification: Examination staff will verify the photograph on the ID matches the candidate’s appearance.
  • Additional Screening: In certain cases, additional security checks may be performed to ensure the authenticity of the ID.

These measures are designed to prevent fraud and ensure the integrity of the examination process.


Would you like to learn more?

Contact us – our team is ready to support you 24/7.

Sign up for our newsletter for teachers and schools

Get your free, 5-min-read monthly newsletter. Join our community of teachers to stay up to date on the latest exam information, product updates, upcoming events and exam resources.