GRE · United States & territories
GRE ID requirements in the United States (2026)
US citizens can use a passport, driver license (including provisional), state ID card or military ID; a passport card needs a second ID. Non-citizens need a passport. Permanent resident, employment authorization and similar cards count only with a supplemental ID.
Covers: United States, American Samoa, U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, Puerto Rico.
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The checker catches what this page can't: a name that doesn't match your registration, an expiry date, or a missing supplemental ID.
Accepted
- Passport
- Citizens: driver license, state ID card or military ID
- US passport card, with a second ID
Not accepted
- Diplomatic or embassy IDs instead of a passport
- A PR or employment authorization card on its own
Rules that apply everywhere
- Your first and last names must match your ETS account exactly, accents aside. A middle initial is optional.
- The ID must be valid on test day. We treat an ID that expires on the exam day itself as expired.
- Bring the physical original: no photocopies, scans or photos on your phone.
- The ID must show your name, a recent photo and your signature.
Questions
Can I use an expired driver license for the GRE in the US?
Only together with your original Department of Public Safety renewal certificate, with matching names.
Sources
Last verified 2026-10-03 against:
- ETS — Identification (ID) Requirements for the GRE General Test (verified 2026-10-03)
Unofficial checklist, not exam or legal advice. ID rules can change and the test centre has the final say, so confirm with the official test owner before exam day.