United States
Hong KongWhat to bring to the exam
Government-issued photo identification, unexpired, with a name matching your registration exactly, plus your confirmation number. Everything else goes in a locker, and no notes or materials are permitted.
A short list, and one item on it turns people away at the desk more often than anything else.
The list
- Government-issued photo identification - driving license, passport, state ID.
- Unexpired.
- Name matching your registration exactly.
- Your confirmation or registration number.
Some centers ask for a second form of identification. Check your confirmation email rather than assuming one is enough.
The name problem
This is the one. If you registered as Mike and your license says Michael, or you have recently married and the documents disagree, you can be turned away.
It is not the proctor being difficult - identity verification is an accreditation requirement. Fix it with the provider before the day, which usually takes one phone call.
What not to bring
Notes, books, phones, smart watches, hats, bags and food all go in a locker. Nothing goes to the workstation.
The exam is closed book and there is nothing you would want anyway - no formulas, and a basic on-screen calculator is available if you somehow need one.
For a remote sitting
The same identification, held up to the camera. Plus a completely clear desk and a room that will pass a scan.
Remove anything on the walls behind you. A temperature chart in a kitchen is a problem you do not want to be discussing at the start of a timed exam.
Practical extras
Arrive fifteen to thirty minutes early. Eat something first - two hours of concentration on an empty stomach is a self-inflicted handicap.
And bring nothing you would mind leaving in a locker for two and a half hours.
Common questions
What ID do you need for the food manager exam?
Government-issued photo identification that is unexpired and matches your registration name exactly. Some centers ask for a second form, so check your confirmation email.
What if the name on your ID does not match?
You can be turned away. Identity verification is an accreditation requirement, so fix it with the provider before the day - usually one phone call.
Can you bring notes?
No. The exam is closed book. Notes, books, phones, smart watches, hats and bags all go in a locker.
Do you need a calculator?
No. There are no formulas on this exam. A basic on-screen calculator is generally available and is almost never used.
What do you need for a remote sitting?
The same photo identification held to the camera, a completely clear desk, and a room that will pass a scan - including the walls behind you.