TOEFL Documents Required 2025 – ID Proof, Registration Papers & Rules

If you are planning to take the TOEFL exam, then it is very important to know what documents you need. Many students forget to check the TOEFL iBT document rules, and on exam day, they face problems. 

If your ID document is not correct or does not match your name in the ETS account, then you may not be allowed to take the TOEFL exam. Also, in most cases, no TOEFL exam fee refund will be given if you are not allowed to take the exam. So, it is better to prepare everything in advance.

The documents required are different for registration, for the exam day at the test centre, and for the TOEFL iBT Home Edition. You must also know that rules are different for each country, so it’s always better to check your country’s rules. In India, for the TOEFL exam, only a valid Indian passport is accepted as ID. No other documents are allowed.

This article will help you understand what are the TOEFL document requirements, what is accepted, what is not accepted, and what special things to remember if you are testing from home. If you follow these steps correctly, your test day will go smoothly, and you will be ready without any last-minute problems.

TOEFL Exam Eligibility Criteria 

ETS has not laid down any specific TOEFL eligibility criteria. However, it is primarily taken by individuals whose primary language is not English and who plan to enroll in educational institutions where English is the medium of communication.

There is no age limit for taking the TOEFL, and no specific educational qualifications are required. To ensure a smooth testing experience, verify that your computer meets the necessary equipment and environment requirements for at-home testing.

Documents Required for TOEFL Registration

A valid Indian passport with your name, photograph, and signature is required for TOEFL registration. When you register for the TOEFL exam, you need to create an ETS account. 

During TOEFL registration:

• Enter your full name exactly as it appears on your ID
• Use the same date of birth and spelling as written on your valid passport

If your name or other details do not match your ID document, you will not be allowed to take the exam, and your fee will not be refunded.

For Indian Candidates

You must enter your name as written on your valid Indian passport. This passport must include:

• Full name
• Recent photograph
• Your signature

Important Tips for TOEFL Registration

• Choose the examination center, date, and time carefully at the time of registration. 
• When you register, be sure that the name you use exactly matches the name printed on the identification (ID) document you will present on the day of the test. If the information doesn’t match, you won’t be able to take the test and your test fee will not be refunded.
• The identification document used at the time of registration should be carried along on the day of examination. The details and information mentioned in the registration form should match the ID proof.
• Test dates can fill up quickly so it is recommended to register 3 to 4 months before the test day to get a convenient date, test center, and timing. 
• Do remember the login credentials that are used for registration for the examination. The test-taker profile is very important for all types of test-related communication.
• Always use a credit card or debit card to pay the registration fee.
• Take a printout or save your TOEFL confirmation page for future use.

TOEFL Exam Format

TOEFL Exam Fees

TOEFL Exam Syllabus

Documents Required on TOEFL Exam Day (Test Centre)

Valid ID for Indian Candidates

In India, you must bring your original Indian passport as your only accepted ID. This passport must:

• Be original and valid (not a photocopy or expired)
• Have your full name
• Show your photograph
• Include your signature

Candidates Aged 15 or Younger

If you are 15 years old or younger, you must:

• Be accompanied by a parent or an authorized adult (18 or older)
• The adult must complete and sign a release form at the test centre
• Both you and the accompanying adult must bring a valid ID

If the ID of either person is not valid, you will not be allowed to take the test

Unacceptable ID Documents for TOEFL

These documents are not accepted for TOEFL identification purposes:

• Aadhaar card
• PAN card
• Credit or debit cards
• Birth certificate
• Student ID card
• Employee ID card
• International driver’s license
• Temporary or handwritten documents
• Social Security card
• Consulate or embassy IDs

Candidates must note that if their ID is not in English alphabets and cannot be read by the test centre staff, they may be denied entry on the TOEFL exam day.

Requirements for TOEFL Exam at Home (iBT Home Edition)

If you are taking the TOEFL iBT Home Edition, you need to prepare for both ID verification and technical setup.

ID Requirements for Home Edition (India)

You must show your valid Indian passport during the check-in process. It must:

• Match the name used in your ETS account
• Include your photo and signature
• Be valid and original (no digital versions)

Keep your passport in hand when the test starts, as the proctor will ask to see it.

TOEFL iBT at Home Equipment and Environment Requirements

To take TOEFL at home, your computer and room must meet ETS standards. If you do not meet these on test day, you cannot take the test and no refund will be given.

Computer Requirements

• Windows or Mac desktop/laptop (no tablets or phones)
• Only one screen and one keyboard
• Use a licensed operating system (no beta or test versions)
• You must pass the ETS equipment check using the TOEFL Test App

Audio and Video Requirements

• Headphones and earphones are not allowed
• Use internal or external speakers
• Use a microphone (not attached to a headset)
• Use a webcam that can be moved to show the room

You may also need a second camera, like a mobile phone, if required by the proctor.

Internet and Software

• A stable internet connection is required
• Run the equipment check multiple times, especially during the time of day when you plan to test
• Close all unused apps and disable screen sharing software

TOEFL iBT Testing Room Setup

• You must be in a private room
• No one else can enter the room during the test
• Doors must be closed, and walls should be clear
• Sit on a regular chair at a desk or table
• You cannot sit on a bed, sofa, or soft chair
• The tabletop must be clear of all personal items
• Food and drinks are not allowed

Appearance and Dress Code for TOEFL iBT at Home

• Your face and ears must be clearly visible at all times
• Face masks, hats, and jewelry (except rings) are not allowed
• Dress properly, as your photo will be shared with universities

Note-Taking Rules in TOEFL iBT at Home

You cannot use paper to take notes. You may use:

• One small whiteboard with an erasable marker, or
• One sheet of paper inside a transparent sheet protector, with a marker

You must erase your notes and show them to the proctor at the end.

Conclusion

Make sure you are fully prepared before test day. Whether you are testing at a centre or at home, ID documents and technical readiness are both important. Any mistake or missing requirement can stop you from taking the test.

It is always better to check your ETS account and read the latest instructions from the official TOEFL website before your exam.

Make sure the name on your ID matches exactly with your registration, no nicknames or mistakes allowed. If you’re under 18, bring a parent along for registration. 

For help with TOEFL documents or test prep, talk to upGrad experts; they will guide you step by step. Start your TOEFL journey right!