CDS 2 Admit Card Instructions 2026: Check Exam Day Guidelines, Documents and Reporting Time

The CDS 2 Admit Card 2026 has been released by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for candidates appearing in the Combined Defence Services Examination (II), 2026. The CDS 2 exam 2026 is scheduled for September 13, 2026, and candidates must follow the instructions mentioned on the e-Admit Card.

Candidates must carry a printed copy of the CDS 2 admit card along with the required photo ID and other permitted items. UPSC has also made face authentication mandatory at the examination venue.

CDS 2 Admit Card 2026: Documents Required

Candidates appearing for the CDS 2 exam 2026 must carry the following documents and items:

• Printed copy of the CDS 2 e-Admit Card
• Photo ID whose number is mentioned on the admit card
• Three recent passport-size photographs
• Black ballpoint pen

Candidates should ensure that the details on their admit card and photo ID are clearly visible and match the required information.

CDS 2 Exam 2026 Reporting Time

Candidates should reach the examination centre well before the scheduled examination time. UPSC has advised candidates to preferably reach the venue 1 hour and 15 minutes before the start of each session to complete face authentication, identity verification and frisking.

Entry to the examination venue will close 30 minutes before the commencement of each session. Candidates should therefore avoid reaching the centre at the last minute.

CDS 2 Exam Timings 2026

The CDS 2 exam 2026 will be conducted in three sessions. Candidates must check the exact subject and timing mentioned on their admit card.

Candidates appearing for multiple papers must follow the reporting and entry timings applicable to each session.

CDS 2 Admit Card Instructions: Face Authentication Mandatory

Face authentication for the CDS 2 exam 2026 will be conducted at the examination venue. Candidates will also undergo identity verification and frisking before entering the examination hall.

Candidates should ensure that their photograph and other details are clearly visible on the admit card. The examination authority will verify the candidate's identity before allowing entry.

CDS 2 Exam 2026: Items Not Allowed

Candidates should not carry prohibited items to the CDS 2 examination centre. These include:

• Mobile phones
• Smartwatches and digital watches
• AI-enabled glasses or devices
• Other IT gadgets
• Books and study material
• Bags
• Valuables and costly items

A simple wristwatch may be permitted, but smartwatches are prohibited. Candidates should carry only the items specifically allowed by UPSC.

CDS 2 Admit Card 2026: Important Exam Centre Instructions

Candidates must appear only at the examination venue allotted to them. They should carefully check the centre address and other details printed on the CDS 2 admit card 2026 before leaving for the examination.

UPSC has clarified that possession or use of prohibited electronic devices or other incriminating material can lead to disciplinary action, cancellation of candidature and other penalties.

CDS 2 Exam 2026: What Candidates Should Check Before Leaving

Before leaving for the examination, candidates should check the following:

1. Download and print the CDS 2 admit card.
2. Check the examination centre address and reporting time.
3. Keep the required photo ID ready.
4. Carry three recent passport-size photographs.
5. Carry a black ballpoint pen.
6. Avoid mobile phones, smartwatches, bags and other prohibited items.
7. Reach the centre at least 1 hour and 15 minutes before the examination.

The CDS 2 Examination 2026 is scheduled for September 13, and the e-Admit Card was uploaded by UPSC on September 3.

CDS 2 Admit Card Instructions 2026 FAQs