ATPL Human Factors exam-day guide
ATPL Human Factors · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired photo identification your provider accepts (commonly a passport or national ID). Confirm the exact accepted document types with the provider before test day; a photocopy or expired document will usually be refused.
Admission confirmation and appointment details
Print or save the confirmation showing your name, test centre address, date, and start time. Check the reporting time, which is often earlier than the start time, and confirm it with the provider.
Approved calculator (if permitted)
Confirm with the provider whether a calculator is allowed for this exam and which models are approved. If permitted, check battery and clear memory; if not permitted, practise mental arithmetic and rough-work methods.
Stationery or rough paper policy
Many test centres supply rough paper and pen and prohibit bringing your own. Confirm the provider's rule so you are not relying on materials that will be removed.
Personal items and storage plan
Phones, smart watches, notes, and bags are normally stored away or prohibited in the test room. Confirm the provider's policy and plan to travel light or arrive with a way to secure valuables.
Route and travel buffer
Plan the journey to arrive with a margin, allowing for traffic and check-in. Confirm the test centre location and access arrangements with the provider rather than relying on an old address.
Revision plan for final review only
In the last days, review condensed notes, summaries, and previously missed points rather than starting new material. Bring nothing into the test room unless the provider permits it.
Rest, hydration, and food plan
Protect sleep in the final nights and plan a normal meal before the test. Confirm with the provider whether water or snacks are allowed during breaks or at the desk.
Break and timing policy confirmed
Ask the provider in advance whether breaks are scheduled, whether the clock stops, and how time is managed. Do not assume a policy; confirm it.
Scoring and pass-mark awareness
Confirm the current pass standard, number of questions, and time allowed with the provider or official syllabus. Do not rely on rumour or on figures remembered from older sittings.
Access or special arrangements
If you need extra time, a separate room, or other adjustments, confirm that approval is already in place and bring any confirmation the provider requires.
Review status of uncertain items
Items marked needs_review depend on provider-specific policy: ID types, calculator use, rough paper, breaks, and pass mark. Verify each with the provider before test day.
Plan the day
Switch to consolidation: review summaries, definitions, and error logs rather than new topics. Rehearse the exam format with timed practice under realistic conditions. Confirm test centre address, reporting time, ID requirements, and calculator or rough-paper policy with the provider. Prepare clothing and travel plans, and protect sleep.
Do a light review of high-yield lists and previously missed questions, then stop early. Pack ID, confirmation, and any permitted items. Check travel routes and set alarms. Avoid heavy study, alcohol, and late screens; eat normally and sleep at your usual time.
Eat a normal meal and hydrate sensibly. Re-check that ID and confirmation are with you. Arrive at the reporting time with a buffer. Keep last-minute review brief and outside the test room if the provider permits; avoid discussing answers with other candidates.
Read the instructions and confirm how time and breaks work. Answer straightforward questions first, flag uncertain ones, and return to them. Watch the clock and keep a margin for transfer or review. If a question is unclear, choose the best-supported answer and move on rather than losing time.
Rules to check
Bring the original, unexpired photo ID accepted by the provider. Confirm the accepted document types in advance; without valid ID you may be refused admission.
Follow all instructions from invigilators. Do not bring unauthorised materials, phones, or smart devices into the test room; confirm the provider's storage policy.
Confirm the break policy before the test: whether breaks are scheduled, whether the clock stops, and what you may access during them. Do not assume.
Confirm the scoring rules, number of questions, time allowed, and current pass standard with the provider or official syllabus. Do not rely on rumour.
If permitted rough paper or a calculator, use only approved items and follow instructions on clearing or returning them. Confirm the policy with the provider.
Do not communicate with other candidates about content during the test or in breaks if the provider prohibits it. Report any technical problem to the invigilator immediately.
If you feel unwell or a disruption occurs, notify staff at once and follow their instructions; confirm the provider's policy on incidents and rescheduling.
Arrive at the reporting time, not the start time. Late arrival may lead to refusal or reduced time; confirm the provider's late-arrival rule in advance.