Skip to content

Sitting the AKT

Publication date: 09 October 2023

Bringing ID

You must bring the following two forms of ID to the test centre:

  • primary ID - photographic, for example international or UK travel passport, driver’s license, military ID or identification card
  • secondary ID - any ID containing at least name and signature, for example a current credit or debit card

For further information, including a full list of acceptable ID, please see Pearson VUE’s ID policy (PDF file, 257 KB).

The names on your ID must match exactly with the names you used on your RCGP application. If they're different, you must bring an original official document linking the two names. For example, if one is your maiden name and one your married name, bring a marriage certificate.

Without the required ID, you will not be able to take the test. Plan ahead to avoid unnecessary distress.

Email exams@rcgp.org.uk well before the exam date if you have any doubts.

Arriving on time

You must arrive at the test centre on time. If you arrive late, you will not be allowed to take the test.

Please check transport and parking in advance because there is no flexibility on admission times.

The confirmation email from Pearson VUE will provide further information about timings.

Personal belongings

You cannot bring personal items into the test room. This includes:

  • Bags
  • Coats
  • Calculators
  • Books
  • Notes
  • Mobile phones
  • Electronic equipment including laptops, tablets and pagers
  • Watches
  • Wallets or purses
  • Food and drink

Personal items must be left in a locker and your mobile phone switched off.

Some comfort aids are permitted by Pearson VUE without prior permission: Pearson VUE comfort aid list (PDF file, 139 KB)

Test security

All tests are confidential to the RCGP. To maintain the security of the test, you’ll need to sign a non-disclosure agreement (PDF file, 127 KB).

If you take the test in the morning session, you cannot leave the test area until the afternoon candidates have arrived for their test.

Pearson VUE uses CCTV cameras to prevent violations of test security.

Taking the test

You will take the test at a computer workstation.

Before the test begins, you will complete a brief tutorial to familiarise yourself with the format of the test and the computer system.

You can leave the test room for water or to visit the toilet, but no additional time will be given.