What to Bring on CAPM® Exam Day: A Checklist

By: Ryan Malaluan, CAPM; Editor: Geram Lompon; Reviewed by: Alvin Villanueva, PMP

The days leading up to your Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) exam can feel like a whirlwind—revisiting formulas, reviewing the PMBOK® Guide, and running through countless practice questions as part of your project management education. But as test day approaches, one final step can make or break your experience: being fully prepared for the exam itself.

Imagine showing up at the testing center only to realize you’ve forgotten a crucial document. Stress levels spike, panic sets in, and suddenly, months of preparation feel at risk. Don’t let a missing ID or misunderstanding of exam policies derail your success.

To help you stay calm and focused, we’ve created this CAPM® exam day checklist covering all the CAPM® exam essentials you need to succeed. Follow it to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth, stress-free test day.

Essential Items to Bring on CAPM Exam Day

The Project Management Institute (PMI®) has strict exam-day requirements, and forgetting a crucial item could lead to unnecessary stress—or worse, being denied entry. To avoid any surprises, double-check your bag before heading to the test center.

1. Valid Government-Issued ID

Your ID must match the name on your CAPM® exam registration—no exceptions. Acceptable forms include:

— Passport
— Driver’s license
— National or state-issued identification card

Important:

• Your ID must be original, unexpired, and contain a recognizable photograph and signature.
• If your name has changed due to marriage or legal reasons, bring supporting documentation (e.g., a marriage certificate).

2. Exam Confirmation Details

You’ll need to verify your appointment at check-in. Keep a copy of:

— PMI authorization email
— Pearson VUE confirmation email
— Exam scheduling details

Even though most test centers have digital records, it’s always wise to have a printed or saved digital copy—just in case.

3. Comfortable Clothing

Testing centers can have unpredictable temperatures—some are too cold, while others are too warm. To stay comfortable:

— Dress in layers (e.g., a lightweight sweater)
— Avoid bulky coats and hats (unless worn for religious purposes)

You’ll be sitting for an extended period, so choose comfort over fashion—your focus should be on the exam, not on adjusting your outfit.

What NOT to Bring to the CAPM® Exam

To avoid last-minute stress or delays at the testing center, leave prohibited items at home or store them in a locker (if available). Bringing restricted items could result in test-day complications—or worse, disqualification.

1. Electronic Devices

Personal electronics are strictly forbidden inside the testing room. This includes:

• Mobile phones
• Smartwatches
• Tablets & laptops
• Bluetooth headphones or earbuds

Reminder: Most centers require you to turn off electronic devices and store them in a locker before entering the exam room. Double-check your pockets to avoid accidental rule violations.

2. Study Materials & Notes

PMI® strictly enforces a closed-book policy, meaning no reference materials are allowed. This includes:

• Printed notes or cheat sheets
• PMBOK® Guide or other study books
• Formula sheets

Tip: The best way to prepare is to internalize key formulas and concepts beforehand; avoid relying on last-minute cramming.

3. Food & Drinks

Eating and drinking are prohibited inside the test room unless you have pre-approved medical accommodations.

• If you require accommodations, please submit a request to PMI® before your exam date to avoid any issues.

Test Day Preparation Tips for a Smooth Experience

Beyond packing the right items, your mindset and routine on exam day play a crucial role in your performance, just like following project management processes ensures project success. Even with months of preparation, unexpected factors—such as arriving late, feeling fatigued, or experiencing test anxiety—can still impact your ability to stay focused. That’s why following these last-minute preparation strategies can make all the difference.

By setting yourself up for success, you’ll walk into the test center (or log in from home) feeling confident, stress-free, and ready to tackle and complete the CAPM® exam head-on.

1. Arrive Early & Know the Test Center Rules

Nothing adds more stress than rushing to your exam at the last minute. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for check-in procedures, which include identity verification, security screenings, and storing personal belongings.

Taking the exam at a test center?

Think of it as part of your risk management strategy—planning to mitigate potential issues on exam day.

• Review Pearson VUE testing policies in advance to avoid surprises. Different centers may have slightly different check-in processes, so knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared.
• Double-check the location and factor in potential traffic delays, parking availability, and weather conditions to ensure a smooth arrival.
• If you’re unfamiliar with the test center, consider visiting the location a day in advance to familiarize yourself with the route, just as you would when preparing for a meeting at a project management office.

Taking the online proctored exam?

• Make sure your test environment meets PMI®’s online exam requirements, which include a quiet, well-lit space with no distractions, a stable internet connection, and a functional webcam.
• Test your equipment, including your computer, webcam, microphone, and internet speed, at least a day before the exam. Technical issues during the exam can cause unnecessary stress or even force a rescheduling.
• Remove unauthorized items from your workspace. PMI enforces strict rules to prevent cheating, so ensure your desk is clear of notes, books, and other materials.

2. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

A well-rested mind is sharper, more alert, and better at problem-solving—all critical skills for tackling your CAPM® exam. Sleep deprivation can lead to mental fog, slow reaction times, and increased anxiety, so aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep the night before your test.

Avoid:

• Cramming late into the night – Last-minute studying can increase anxiety and make it harder to retain information.
• Eating heavy meals before bed – Consuming too much food close to bedtime, especially greasy or sugary foods, can lead to poor sleep quality.

Try instead:

• Wind down with a calming routine: Listen to relaxing music, do some light stretching, or read something non-study-related.
• Please stick to your normal sleep schedule: This helps your body recognize when it’s time to rest, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed.

3. Eat a Balanced Meal Beforehand

Food fuels focus, and what you eat before your exam can directly impact your concentration and energy levels. Avoid going in on an empty stomach—it could lead to fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

Good choices:

• Protein-rich foods, such as eggs, nuts, yogurt, and lean meats, help maintain steady energy levels.
• Whole grains, such as oatmeal or whole-wheat toast, provide slow-burning carbohydrates that support sustained focus.
• Fruits & vegetables provide essential vitamins that support cognitive function.

Avoid:

• Excessive caffeine – While coffee can help with alertness, too much can cause jitters and frequent bathroom breaks.
• Heavy, greasy foods can make you feel sluggish and uncomfortable during the exam.

Tip: If your exam is scheduled for later in the day, have a light, healthy snack beforehand to avoid hunger distractions.

4. Manage Test Anxiety with Relaxation Techniques

Feeling nervous? You’re not alone. Even the most prepared test-takers experience exam anxiety, but the key is learning how to manage it, especially for entry-level project managers taking their first certification exam.

Try these simple yet effective calming techniques before your exam:

Deep breathing exercises – A proven method to reduce stress and improve focus. Try the 4-4-4 technique:

• Inhale deeply for four seconds, hold for four seconds, and exhale for four seconds.
• Repeat several times to help calm your nervous system.

Mindfulness or meditation – Taking a few minutes to focus on breathing before the exam can help reduce stress and enhance concentration. Use a guided meditation app if needed.

Positive self-talk – How you talk to yourself matters. Instead of doubting yourself, use affirmations such as:

• “I am well-prepared and capable of passing this exam.”
• “I have studied hard, and I am ready.”

The key is to stay calm, trust your preparation, and approach the exam with confidence, leveraging your project management experience to answer each question strategically. The CAPM® certification is within your reach—take it one question at a time and open doors to an exciting project management career.

Final Thoughts: Stay Confident and Prepared

Success on CAPM® exam day isn’t just about knowing the material—it’s about being fully prepared for the logistics of test day, just like a project management professional would approach a major project milestone. By following this exam day checklist, you’ll eliminate last-minute stress and walk into your test feeling confident and focused, laying the foundation for a future PMP® certification.

Before leaving (or logging in for your online exam), do a final check:

• Valid ID
• Exam confirmation details
• Any approved test-day essentials

Take a deep breath, trust your preparation, and tackle the exam with confidence. You’ve put in the work—now it’s time to show what you know.

Seeking additional support before exam day? Our CAPM® Exam Prep Course is a 23-hour project management training program designed to help aspiring project managers understand core project management professional concepts with practice exams and coaching support. It’s the ideal resource for those seeking to acquire essential project management knowledge and pass the CAPM® exam with confidence.

Start your career today and take the next step toward your project management certification with the CAPM® credential. Enroll in the CAPM® Exam Prep Course Now