Complete List of Documents Required for SAT Registration (2026)

Preparing for the SAT is a big task, and most students focus on practice tests and study plans. But many forget about the important documents needed on exam day. If you miss even one required document, you may face stress or even be stopped from entering the test centre.

In this blog, we have made a simple checklist of all the documents you need for the SAT exam in 2026 so you can stay organised and avoid any problems on test day.

Documents Checklist for SAT Registration

The documents required for SAT registration include a valid passport or original Aadhaar card, a recent photo, and many others. These documents help confirm your identity and make sure your SAT Registration is on point. 

Here is the list of important documents required for SAT registration:

• College Board account login details (username and password)
• SAT admission ticket (from the Bluebook app)
• Acceptable photo identification (physical ID only)
• Fully charged testing device with Bluebook app installed
• Approved calculator for the SAT Math exam (optional but recommended)

Let’s discuss each required document in detail and understand its role during SAT registration and test day.

College Board Account Login Details

Your College Board username and password are required to complete SAT registration and to access the Bluebook testing app. You might not be able to start the exam even if you are present at the test center without these credentials.

SAT Admission Ticket

The admission ticket is generated after completing exam setup in the Bluebook app and confirms your SAT registration. A printed copy is preferred, and the details on the ticket must exactly match your photo ID.

Acceptable Photo Identification

A valid, unexpired photo ID is mandatory to verify your identity at the test center. The ID must be an original physical document and should display your full legal name, a clear photograph, and legible text.

Fully Charged Testing Device

You must bring a compatible laptop or tablet with the Bluebook application installed and exam setup completed. The device should be fully charged, as access to power outlets is not guaranteed at all test centers.

Approved Calculator

An approved calculator can be used for the SAT Math section, although an embedded calculator is available within the Bluebook. Bringing a familiar calculator can help improve speed and accuracy during problem-solving.

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SAT Photo ID Requirements

SAT photo ID requirements are strictly enforced by the College Board to protect test integrity and prevent identity fraud. Even if you are registered and have an admission ticket, you will not be allowed to enter the test center without an acceptable photo ID.

Acceptable Photo ID for the SAT

The College Board only accepts original, physical photo IDs that meet all official criteria. Test center staff will compare your ID with your admission ticket before allowing entry.

Here is what acceptable photo ID SAT documents include:

• A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID).
• A physical school-issued student ID from the school you currently attend.
• A government-issued passport (mandatory for students testing outside their home country).
• A government-issued military or national identification card.
• SAT Student ID Form (US only; for students under 21 or homeschooled students).

Please note: Your full legal name must exactly match the name on your admission ticket. The photograph must be recent and clearly recognizable.

Unacceptable Photo ID for the SAT

Any ID that does not meet the College Board’s requirements can result in denial of entry, dismissal from the test center, or cancellation of scores.

The following IDs are not acceptable for SAT: 

• Digital or electronic IDs are displayed on a phone or device.
• Photocopies, screenshots, or printouts of any ID.
• Expired, temporary, or damaged IDs.
• Credit or debit cards, even if they include a photo.
• Birth certificates or Social Security cards.
• Employee or workplace ID cards.
• Aadhaar e-cards, screenshots, or printouts (India).
• Any ID marked with statements like 'Not valid as identification.'
• Any ID that appears altered, tampered with, or unclear.

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SAT ID Requirements: Allowed vs Not Allowed

Before your SAT Test Day, it’s important to know which ID documents are actually accepted at the test centre. Many students face last-minute issues because they bring the wrong or invalid ID.

Here’s a list to make sure you carry the correct document and avoid any test-day problems: 

Documents to Carry on SAT Test Day

On the day of your SAT exam, you must bring your SAT admission ticket. It shows your registration details and the address of your selectedSAT exam test centre. Carrying the correct ID is essential to avoid any delays or entry problems on exam day.

Common Mistakes Students Make with SAT Documents

Keeping your documents correct and updated is just as important as studying for the SAT. Even a small mistake in your ID, photo, or registration can stop you from taking the test. To avoid last-minute problems, make sure you follow these common documentation checks.

1. Name mismatch between ID and registration

Many students register with nicknames, omit their middle names, or rearrange the name order. If your registration name does not match your ID exactly, the test centre cannot confirm your identity. This can lead to denial of entry or your scores being held back.

2. Uploading a poor or incorrect photo

Your SAT photo must be clear, recent, and show your full face. Your head and shoulders should be visible, with both eyes open. Photos with sunglasses, shadows, side angles, or multiple people will be rejected. A wrong photo may stop you from taking the test or delay your scores.

3. Using expired or invalid ID

Expired, damaged, photocopied, or digital IDs are not accepted. International students must be extra careful, as many countries, including India, require a valid passport for the SAT. An invalid ID means you will not be allowed to test.

4. Incorrect contact details or registration errors

Students sometimes use an old email, an inactive phone number, or accidentally skip important fields. This can cause you to miss updates from the College Board. Rushing during registration may also lead to choosing the wrong test date or centre.

5. Not checking country-specific ID rules

ID requirements change from country to country. In India, a valid passport or Aadhaar PVC card may be required. Assuming all countries follow the same rules can lead to confusion and being stopped at the centre.

6. Last-minute ID changes or renewal delays

Waiting too long to renew your passport or correct a name error is a common problem. If your updated ID is not ready on test day, you will not be allowed to write the exam. Always check well in advance that your ID meets SAT guidelines.

From the Desk of Yocket

Do not forget that SAT preparation is not only about studying. It is also about keeping your documents ready. A missing passport, an invalid Aadhaar card, or a photo that does not match your appearance can stop you from taking the exam. Stay organised, check your documents before the test day, and keep everything in one folder.

If you need expert help, SAT Sample Papers, or personalised SAT prep resources to reach your target score, Yocket Prep can support you. Prepare wisely, stay consistent, and score your best on the SAT.