LSAT Test Day: Photo, Not Thumbprint

UPDATE: A variety of hilarious sample photos, mostly centered around how NOT to take your LSAT Test Day photo, are available on LSAC's website.

The following is an important public service announcement from the Law School Admission Council (LSAC):

Greetings from Newtown!

I write to remind you of a change in the way LSAT registrants will provide identification at testing sites. Starting with the June 2011 test, LSAC will no longer thumbprint LSAT candidates. All registrants will be required to affix a recent photograph to their LSAT admission ticket. The photograph must have been taken within the last six months and show only the candidate’s face and shoulders. It must be clear enough so there is no question about identity, and it must be no larger than 2x2 inches or 5x5 cm and no smaller than 1x1 inch or 3x3 cm.

Previously, only registrants for Canadian and international test centers were required to affix a photo to their LSAT Admission Ticket. The new rule makes identification requirements consistent for all test takers.

So, everyone taking the LSAT in less than 6 months, please go out ASAP so you don't forget to get the required photograph. Put it in a safe place.

Regardless of when you're taking the LSAT, add the word "photo" to your calendar next to "I love the LSAT" so you'll remember to bring it. The required photo size is approximately the same as that of a typical U.S. passport photo, which you can typically get at many post offices or chain pharmacies.

As annoying as it is to go out and get a new photo just for the LSAT, I guess you can be glad that getting a thumbful of ink is no longer a requirement for Test Day.

Here's some more information about LSAC's Test Day requirements regarding the photo, from the Day of the Test page of their website:

all candidates must attach to their ticket a recent photograph (taken within the last six months) showing only the face and shoulders. The photograph must be clear enough so there is no doubt about the test taker's identity, and must be no larger than 2 x 2 inches (5 x 5 cm) and no smaller than 1 x 1 inch (3 x 3 cm). Your face in the photo must show you as you look on the day of the test (for example, with or without a beard). The photograph will be retained by LSAC only as long as needed to assure the authenticity of test scores and to protect the integrity of the testing process.

If you do not present both acceptable identification and the required photograph, you will be denied entrance to the testing room.

What are you planning to wear for your LSAT Test Day photo shoot?