What to Bring to the California Real Estate Exam: Your Essential Checklist

You’ve spent weeks, perhaps months, mastering contracts, disclosures, and agency relationships. But the most stressful part of the California real estate exam should be making sure you pass the first time, not getting through the front door of the testing center.

Every year, well-prepared candidates are turned away before they even see a single exam question.

Why?

Because they forgot a specific document, brought a prohibited item, or arrived with an ID that didn't match their registration. At ADHI Schools, I have spent over 20 years guiding students through this process, and we’ve seen how a simple oversight can derail a career launch.

This is your definitive "bring / don't-bring" checklist. Use this guide to ensure your exam day is focused on the content, not the logistics.

Quick Checklist Preview

• Must Bring: Valid Government-issued Photo ID and Exam Confirmation.
• Must Leave: All electronics (phones, smartwatches) and study materials.
• Arrive: At least 30 minutes early to handle security and storage.

Can I bring my phone to the California real estate exam?

No. Store it in your locker or leave it secured in your vehicle. Even powered-off devices can trigger a rule violation if they are on your person during the exam.

The 60-Second Checklist (Bring / Don’t Bring)

If you are walking out the door right now, here is the high-confidence version of your day.

Mandatory Items You Must Bring

To sit for the exam, you must prove who you are and that you are authorized to be there. The proctors at the testing center have zero flexibility on these requirements.

1. Valid Government-Issued Photo ID

This is the most common point of failure. Your ID must be current (not expired), contain a recognizable photograph, and—most importantly—the name on your ID must match the name on your exam registration.

For a deep dive on what counts as valid (and what causes a turn-away), see Identification Requirements for the CA Exam.

2. Your Exam Confirmation Notice

While many centers can look you up digitally, having a printed copy of your examination confirmation (obtained via the DRE eLicensing system) is your "golden ticket." It contains your exam date, time, and center location. It serves as your proof of scheduling if there is a technical glitch at the check-in desk.

Optional Items That Help (Without Getting You in Trouble)

While the list of what you can take into the testing room is tiny, these items will make your overall experience significantly better:

• Layered Clothing: Testing centers are notorious for unpredictable climates. One room might be a freezer, the next a sauna. Bring a light jacket or sweater (without many pockets) so you can adjust.
• Parking Plan and Buffer Time: Don't let a hunt for a parking spot raise your cortisol levels. Map out the center 24 hours in advance and aim to be in the parking lot 45 minutes before your start time.
• Water and a Snack: You cannot bring these into the testing room, but keep them in your car. After hours of intense mental focus, your blood sugar will be low. Having a "recovery snack" waiting for you is a pro move.

What Not to Bring (Common Turn-Away Triggers)

The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) and its testing partners maintain strict security protocols. Bringing these items into the testing area is often considered a security violation.

• Electronics of Any Kind: This includes phones, tablets, and e-readers.

If you leave your phone in your pocket and it's discovered during check-in—even if it's powered off—it can be flagged as a violation.

• Watches and Wearable Tech: Smartwatches are strictly prohibited. Policies on analog watches vary by site; to avoid any confusion or delays, it is best to leave all watches in your locker or car.
• Calculators: Calculators are no longer provided at the exam site and you aren’t allowed to bring your own. There is no longer any math on the real estate exam.
• Bags and Wallets: Most centers provide small lockers, but they are often only large enough for a set of keys and a slim wallet. Avoid bringing large purses or backpacks.

To avoid accidental rule violations, review California Real Estate Exam Rules & Testing Policies before exam day.

What to Expect at Check-In (So Nothing Surprises You)

Checking in for the exam feels a bit like TSA at the airport. You should arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure you aren't rushed.

1. The Security Sweep: You may be asked to empty your pockets, turn them inside out, and show your wrists to ensure no prohibited items are being brought in.
2. The Storage Reality: You will likely be assigned a small locker for your keys and ID. Note that the DRE and the test center take no responsibility for lost or stolen items—leave everything but the essentials in your locked vehicle.
3. The Name Match: The proctor will compare your ID to the roster. If the names don't match and you lack the documentation mentioned above, you may not be allowed to test.

If You Get Turned Away (Your Next Move)

If the worst happens—you're late, your ID is expired, or you forgot your documents—take a breath. It feels like a disaster, but it is a fixable mistake.

If you are turned away, you will typically have to reschedule and pay a new examination fee. Once you've processed the frustration, you'll need a recovery plan. If you are unable to complete the exam for any reason, check out our guide on What Happens If You Fail the CA Real Estate Exam to learn how to reapply and get back on track.

After the Exam: What Comes Next

When you finish the exam, the screen will eventually reveal your result. Passing is an incredible milestone, but it’s just the start of the licensing process. If you haven’t done your fingerprints yet you will need to do that and apply for your license.

ADHI Schools recommends the combo exam/license application that allows for the exam and license to be applied simultaneously.

For a step-by-step look at how to turn that passing score into an active license, read our breakdown: What Happens After You Pass the CA Real Estate Exam.

FAQ: California Real Estate Exam Day

What ID do I need to bring to the California real estate exam?

You need a current, government-issued photo ID such as a Driver’s License, State ID card, or Passport.

Do I need to print my exam confirmation to take the test?

While not always strictly required at every center, it is highly recommended. It serves as your "receipt" and contains vital information if there is a scheduling dispute.

Can I bring my phone into the exam room?

Absolutely not. Phones must be powered off and stored in a locker or left in your vehicle.

Are smartwatches allowed during the California real estate exam?

No. Smartwatches are treated as prohibited communication devices.

What happens if I arrive late to the exam center?

Most centers enforce a strict cutoff window. If you arrive late, you may be treated as a no-show and required to reschedule—your exam confirmation notice controls the timing rules.

Is there a locker for personal belongings at the test center?

Most testing locations provide small lockers for essential items like keys and wallets, but they cannot accommodate large bags or laptops.

Your Full Exam Roadmap

Looking for the "Big Picture"? Our California Real Estate Exam Guide is the master hub for scheduling, rules, ID, and what to do after you pass or fail.

Printable Checklist

• Primary ID: Current, valid, and matches registration name.
• Confirmation Notice: Printed from eLicensing.
• The "Light" Setup: No heavy bags, no extra tech.
• Vehicle Prep: Phone and watch hidden/locked in the car.
• Timeline: Directions saved, arriving 30–45 mins early.

Need a focused prep plan? Explore our www.crashcourseonline.com to get exam-ready once you’ve mastered the logistics.

Or warm up with our Free Real Estate Practice Exam to get familiar with question style before test day.