CIDESCO Theory exam-day guide
CIDESCO Theory · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid photo ID
Bring a government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driving licence). Confirm with the provider which forms of ID are accepted and that the name matches your exam booking exactly. [needs_review: exact ID policy varies by centre]
Exam confirmation or booking reference
Bring your admission letter, booking confirmation, or candidate number. Confirm with the provider whether a printed copy is required or a digital copy is acceptable. [needs_review]
Pens and pencils
Pack at least two black or blue ballpoint pens, a pencil, eraser, and sharpener in case written answers or multiple-choice sections require them. Confirm with the provider whether pencil is permitted for any section.
Non-smart wristwatch
A simple watch helps you pace yourself if the room clock is not visible. Confirm with the provider whether watches are allowed in the exam room. [needs_review]
Clear water bottle
Bring water in a clear, label-free bottle if the venue permits drinks at your desk. Confirm with the provider.
Venue directions and contact number
Print or save travel directions, the venue address, and the provider's contact number so you can call if transport is disrupted.
Professional attire or uniform
Dress neatly and professionally. Confirm with the provider whether the theory exam requires full salon uniform or smart business attire. [needs_review]
Transport and backup plan
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time, with a backup route. Confirm the required arrival and registration time with the provider.
Light revision notes
Bring a small set of summary notes or flashcards for the waiting area only. Confirm with the provider whether materials may be used before entering the exam room. [needs_review]
Money or card for travel and lockers
Carry a small amount for transport, parking, or a locker. Confirm with the provider whether storage is available for bags and phones.
Plan the day
Confirm the exam date, start time, venue, ID requirements, and dress code with your provider. Plan your journey and a backup route. Do a final review of weaker topics using your own notes, then stop adding new material. Prioritise sleep.
Pack your bag: ID, confirmation, pens, pencil, eraser, sharpener, watch, water, directions, and contact number. Lay out your clothes. Do only light revision. Set two alarms and go to bed at a reasonable hour.
Eat a normal breakfast and stay hydrated. Leave with extra time to spare. Arrive at the venue early, check in as directed, use the toilet before entering, and switch off and store your phone as instructed.
Read all instructions and the front page carefully. Note the total time and number of questions, then budget roughly one minute per mark or as directed. Answer the questions you are confident about first, flag harder ones, and return to them. For multiple-choice items, read every option before choosing and be wary of absolutes. Leave time to check that every question has an answer and that your name and candidate number are correct.
Rules to check
Bring valid photo ID and your booking confirmation. Confirm the exact accepted documents with the provider before exam day.
Switch off mobile phones and smart devices and store them as directed. Do not keep them on your person in the exam room.
Follow all instructions from the invigilator. Do not talk, signal, or exchange materials with other candidates once the exam has started.
Do not bring unauthorised notes, textbooks, or electronic aids into the exam room. Confirm with the provider what is permitted.
If you need a toilet break, raise your hand and wait for the invigilator. Confirm with the provider whether breaks are permitted and whether exam time is stopped.
Arrive on time. Confirm the provider's late-arrival policy, as candidates arriving after the start may not be admitted.
Scoring and results: confirm the pass mark, result release date, and any reassessment policy directly with your provider; these details vary by centre and session.
If you are unwell or unable to attend, contact the provider as soon as possible to ask about their deferral or special-consideration policy.