United States
Hong KongIdentification
You must present acceptable identification whose name matches your application exactly. Requirements are set by PTCB and Pearson VUE and are applied strictly at check-in.
The most avoidable way to lose a fee, and it happens often enough to be worth its own page.
The rule that catches people
The name on your identification must match the name on your application. Not nearly, exactly.
A married name on one and a maiden name on the other. A shortened first name on the application and the full legal name on the license. A middle initial present in one place and absent in the other. None of these can be resolved at the desk, and the appointment goes with them.
Check it now, not on the day
- Open your application record and read the name exactly as it appears
- Put your identification next to it and compare character by character
- If they differ, correct it with PTCB before your appointment
- Confirm your identification is current and not expired
What counts as acceptable
PTCB and Pearson VUE publish the acceptable forms, and there are usually requirements about photographs, signatures and expiry. Some centers require more than one document.
Read the current list rather than assuming a driving license will do, and check whether a second form is needed.
Bring more than the minimum
If you have a second acceptable document, bring it. It costs nothing and it covers the case where the first is questioned.
The cost of getting it wrong
A retake is a fresh application at USD 129. Five minutes checking two documents against each other is the best-value preparation on this list.
Common questions
What ID do I need for the PTCB exam?
Acceptable identification as published by PTCB and Pearson VUE, with the name matching your application exactly.
What if my name does not match?
Correct it with PTCB before your appointment. It cannot be resolved at the test center.
Do I need two forms of ID?
Sometimes. Check the current requirements, and bring a second if you have one.
What are common mismatches?
Married versus maiden names, shortened first names, and a middle initial present on one document only.
What does getting it wrong cost?
The appointment, and a retake is a fresh application at USD 129.