How To Get on American Idol

Go to americanidol.com to find out about audition details, including the location and dates of the audition closest to you.

Download the release form from the web site. You’ll need to bring it with you to the registration. You’ll also need two forms of ID, proving you’re an American citizen between the age of 16 and 28, and a parent or guardian if you are under 18.

A day or two before the audition, head to the audition site – usually the biggest sports arena in your town – and register. You’ll get a wristband and seat number for the actual day of the audition.

Prepare two songs to sing without accompaniment. You’ll probably just get to sing a tiny bit of one song before you’re cut off mercilessly, but, in case they really like you, be ready to sing both.

Arrive early on the day of the audition with your release form and two IDs. Having a wristband and a seat number doesn’t guarantee you’ll get to sing for the judges. Time may run out—so get there at least two hours before the audition begins.

You’ll have to wait several hours before you’re called on to do anything.

It’s not yet time to sing in front of the actual judges, but here’s your chance to impress an assistant with your performance. If you’re good—or bad—enough, they’ll give you a golden ticket to move on to sing in front of a producer. If not, they’ll send you home.

If you get to proceed, sing your song again – now in front of the show’s producers. These are really the ones to impress, since they decide if you’re “good television.” Again, you’ll need to either vocally wow them or convince them you’re laughably untalented or crazy.

At this point you may or may not perform for the show’s judges – and in front of the cameras. Even if you don’t make it this far, there’s hope: Footage of you standing in line could make it on to the show.