What to Bring to NCLEX: A Complete Guide for Test Day Success

If you’re preparing for the NCLEX exam, you’ve probably got your study plan down and have been hitting the books hard. But have you stopped to think about what to bring to NCLEX? Sure, you’ve been putting in the work, but on test day, having the right materials and knowing exactly what to expect can make a world of difference.

The last thing you want is to walk into that testing center feeling unprepared because you didn’t have the right documents or materials. We get it—every detail counts, and that’s why we’re here to walk you through what you’ll need to bring on test day so you can focus on what really matters: passing the exam!

Preparing for Test Day: What to Bring to NCLEX

Test day is right around the corner. You’ve done all the studying, reviewed the NCLEX content outline, and prepped your mind, but what about the practical side of things? 

You need to make sure you’re set on the material side of your NCLEX exam prep, too. Think about it: you wouldn’t go to a job interview without your resume, right? Well, don’t walk into the NCLEX without the right documents either.

So, let's take a look at the key things you’ll need to bring with you to the testing center, along with some tips to help make the day go smoothly.

Your NCLEX Admission Notice

Alright, let’s start with the number one essential: your admission notice. You won’t get very far without this piece of paper. The admission notice is essentially your ticket into the testing center.

It contains all the key details about your exam, including the time, location, and your unique registration number. It’s the one thing you absolutely can’t forget, so make sure it’s the first item on your list.

You’ll get this notice via email once your registration is complete, but some states might also mail you a hard copy. Either way, you’ll need to print it out (or have it accessible digitally) to show when you arrive at the testing center. The testing staff will scan the barcode and check your details against the system to confirm you’re all set to take the exam.

Valid, Acceptable Identification

Now, let's talk about ID. You need a valid, government-issued photo ID to take the exam. This ID will be checked when you check in. Make sure it has your full name, signature, and photo. 

Acceptable IDs are typically things like a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID. Double-check that it’s not expired! An expired ID won’t be accepted, and you’ll likely be turned away.

A Credit or Debit Card

When it comes to the NCLEX, the exam fee must be paid before you walk in. Most of the time, you’ll have already handled this during the registration process. 

Appropriate Clothing

On test day, comfort is key. You’ll be sitting in the testing room for several hours, and the last thing you need is to be uncomfortable because of what you’re wearing. 

The temperature in the testing center can vary—sometimes it’s too cold, sometimes it’s too warm. So, it’s a good idea to wear layers that you can adjust depending on the room temperature.

Think about it this way: You don’t want to be shivering in a cold room or sweating in a hot room while trying to concentrate on the test. Throw on a light jacket or sweater that you can take off when needed. 

And when it comes to shoes, comfort is king. You’ll be sitting for long periods, so skip the heels or tight shoes. Opt for something easy to walk in, like comfy flats or sneakers.

Hair Ties or Headbands

It’s a small thing, but it can make a huge difference if you have long hair. Bring a hair tie or a headband to keep your hair out of your face. 

NCLEX-Approved Supplies

Here’s a piece of good news: You don’t have to worry about bringing pens, pencils, or paper. The NCLEX is fully computerized, and the testing center will provide you with everything you need to take the exam. Here’s what’s included:

You won’t need to bring any of this, but it’s important to know that it’s all provided for you. Don’t worry about bringing your own supplies!

Snacks and Drinks

The NCLEX can last a few hours, so you’ll need some energy to keep you going. While you can’t bring food or drink into the testing room itself, there will be a break during the exam where you can grab a snack or drink. It’s a good idea to bring a healthy snack like a protein bar or fruit for that time.

Remember, avoid heavy or greasy snacks that could make you feel sluggish. A light snack will help you stay energized and focused during the test. And don’t forget a water bottle to stay hydrated!

Personal Comfort Items

We know test day can be stressful, so if you have any personal comfort items that help you stay calm and relaxed, bring them along. Maybe a small stress ball, a favorite piece of jewelry, or a lucky charm. 

Just make sure these items fit within the testing center’s guidelines and won’t distract you from the exam. You don’t need anything too big or distracting, just something to keep you calm and centered.

What Not to Bring to NCLEX

Now that we’ve covered what to bring to NCLEX, let’s talk about what to leave behind. Some items are flat-out not allowed in the testing center, and bringing them could cause delays or even disqualification from the exam. Here’s what you shouldn’t bring:

Organizing Your NCLEX Test Day: Tips for Success

So far, we’ve covered what you should bring to NCLEX, but there are a few more tips to help you make the most out of your test day. Let’s go over some extra strategies that’ll help keep you on track.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

This might seem obvious, but it’s so important that we’ll say it again: Get a good night’s sleep before the exam. If you stay up late cramming, you’ll wake up groggy and less focused. 

Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep the night before. Your brain will thank you, and you’ll be much sharper when you sit down to take the test.

Arrive Early

You don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time. This gives you time to go through check-in, get settled, and take care of any last-minute paperwork or bathroom breaks.

Eat a Healthy Meal

Fuel your body with a healthy, balanced meal before the exam. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that could make you sluggish. Think protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Something like eggs and toast or oatmeal with fruit is a great option.

Stay Calm During the Exam

It’s normal to feel anxious, but try not to let that anxiety get in the way of your performance. Focus on one question at a time. If you get stuck, don’t spend too much time on it. Move on and come back to it later. Trust your instincts and keep your pace steady.

Preparation Tips for NCLEX: Building a Study Plan That Works

You’ve made it this far—now it’s time to organize your study plan. The NCLEX is no walk in the park, and a haphazard approach won’t do. Instead of just going through random practice questions or reading through a book chapter by chapter, let’s get strategic about how to approach this test.

Break Your Study Time Into Blocks

Studying for NCLEX isn’t just about going through materials endlessly. It’s about smart, focused study sessions. Try breaking your study time into 60–90 minute blocks with short breaks in between. This method—often referred to as the Pomodoro technique—helps your brain retain information and keeps you focused for longer.

During each study block, focus on a specific subject or area where you feel you need the most improvement. After 60 minutes of study, take a 10–15 minute break. You’ll feel more refreshed and ready to tackle the next block.

Review NCLEX-RN Content Outline or NCLEX-PN Content Outline

One of the best ways to ensure you're on track with your studying is by reviewing the NCLEX content outline. It helps you understand what topics are critical for the exam and which areas you should be focusing on the most. Check out the NCLEX-RN content outline or the NCLEX-PN content outline to guide your review.

Test Day Prep: Creating Your Mental Checklist

You’ve made your way through study materials, practiced, and prepared—now it’s about making sure your mindset is as ready as your knowledge. When you think about what to bring to NCLEX, it’s easy to focus on the tangible things, but your mental preparation is just as important.

Stay Positive and Confident

Confidence is a key factor in performing well on test day. If you’ve studied thoroughly, you’re more prepared than you think. Don't second-guess yourself. In fact, too much self-doubt during the test can slow you down and waste precious time.

Practice Mindfulness or Deep Breathing

Test anxiety is real, and it can hit hard when you’re faced with a long exam like the NCLEX. But there’s a simple solution: mindfulness. Practicing a few deep breathing exercises before the test and even during breaks can help calm your nerves and bring your focus back. 

Taking a moment to breathe deeply is all it takes to reset and refocus when you feel overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts on What to Bring to NCLEX

Knowing what to bring to NCLEX is a key part of preparing for the exam. When you’ve got the right documents, ID, and materials in hand, it helps eliminate unnecessary stress on test day. It’s all about making sure you’re organized and ready to take on the challenge.

Remember, you’ve done the hard work. You’ve studied, reviewed, and practiced. Now it’s time to trust in yourself and your preparation. With the right materials and a calm, focused mindset, you’re more than ready to walk in and show what you know.

If you're gearing up for the NCLEX exam, staying focused and sharp is essential. That’s why subscribing to our NCLEX Daily Dose emails is a great idea. Every day, you'll receive a quick tip, question of the day, or essential piece of advice to help you stay on track for exam day. 

You’ll have the support you need to make sure you’re consistently progressing. Subscribe to the NCLEX Daily Dose emails now to get daily tips sent right to your inbox!