AL POST exam-day guide
AL POST · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the exact form of ID your testing provider requires (commonly a current passport or driver's license). Confirm the accepted ID types and name-matching rules with the provider in advance, since a name mismatch can bar entry.
Admission/confirmation document
Print or save the scheduling confirmation showing your test date, time, and testing location or online check-in link. Some centers require the confirmation number at check-in.
Know your testing format and location
Confirm whether you are testing at a physical center or remotely, and the exact address or software/check-in link. Verify the start time in your local time zone.
Arrival time buffer
Arrive or log in earlier than the stated reporting time to allow for security checks and ID verification. Confirm the provider's required arrival window.
Permitted items only
Review the provider's list of allowed and prohibited items. Assume phones, smartwatches, notes, and study materials are not allowed in the testing room unless explicitly stated.
Any approved accommodations confirmation
If you were granted accommodations, bring the approval documentation or note the approval reference. Confirm how accommodations are activated on test day with the provider.
Rest and logistics plan
Plan your route or quiet workspace, set two alarms, and get a full night's sleep. Arrange transportation or a backup internet connection if testing remotely.
Break plan
Confirm whether breaks are offered, their length, and whether the clock stops during breaks. Plan hydration and snacks around that schedule.
Water and a light snack for after the test
Keep these outside the testing room so you can use them during authorized breaks or after the exam.
Read the candidate agreement in advance
Review the conduct and integrity rules you will be asked to accept so there are no surprises at check-in.
Plan the day
Stop learning new material. Do light review of your own summary notes and high-level frameworks only. Confirm your appointment details, ID, location or remote setup, and any accommodation approvals. Protect sleep.
Do a short, low-stress review and then stop. Prepare your ID, confirmation, and clothing with no prohibited items. Charge devices and test your remote setup if applicable. Confirm travel time or workspace. Go to bed early.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate moderately, and avoid cramming. Arrive or log in with a buffer. Complete ID verification and read all check-in instructions carefully.
Read each question fully before answering. Answer easier items first if the format allows navigation, and flag uncertain ones to revisit. Watch the clock and pace yourself against the number of remaining questions. Use only authorized breaks. If a technical problem occurs, notify the proctor immediately and note what happened.
Confirm with the provider how and when results are released and what the score-report or retake process is. Do not discuss specific exam content with others.
Rules to check
Bring only permitted items into the testing room. Phones, smartwatches, notes, and study materials are generally prohibited; confirm the exact list with the provider.
Present valid, unexpired photo ID that matches your registration name. If your name differs, resolve it with the provider before test day.
Follow all proctor instructions and the candidate integrity agreement. Do not communicate with others, copy content, or use unauthorized aids during the exam.
Breaks, if offered, follow the provider's rules on timing and clock stoppage. Confirm these in advance and return promptly from any break.
If you test remotely, follow the room and environment rules (for example, a clear workspace and camera visibility). Confirm the specific requirements with the provider.
Report any technical failure or irregularity to the proctor immediately and ask how it will be documented.
Understand the scoring and retake policy before test day, including when results are released and any waiting period between attempts. Confirm details with the provider.
Do not share, reproduce, or discuss specific exam questions after the test, in line with the integrity agreement.