How to Audition for American Idol

It seems like yesterday that the most recent "American Idol" was crowned and millions of TV viewers had to find something else to watch for a change. Never fear--withdrawal from "Idol" is brief. Producers are already scheduling auditions for season seven, and if you play your cards right, you could be the next "Idol". Read on to learn how to audition for American idol.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Check the

1. Go to the "Idol" website and check the cities and dates already listed for auditions. As of late June, audition dates are scheduled in major cities such as Dallas, Omaha, Miami, Atlanta and Philadelphia. The first auditions are held at the end of July. If a nearby city is not listed, keep checking.

2. Show up one or two days before the actual audition date, because "American Idol" will register potential contestants for auditions since no one will be allowed to stay overnight at any of the audition locations.

3. Pick up your wristband and seat number and guard both with your life. You will need both to get back into the auditions when they begin. If anyone intends to accompany you to the auditions, that person must also pick up a wristband and seat number. Keep in mind that the producers might not send you on to the auditions--they reserve that right.

4. Bring two forms of identification with you to registration, one that is proof of your age and one with a photo. For example, a passport and driver's license, or a social security card and driver's license.

Survive the Audition

5. Get to the auditions as early as the venue will allow. Many of these events are held at malls, stadiums and superstores, so check during registration to find out how early you will be permitted to line up for auditions. Even if auditions begin at 8 a.m. and you have a wristband, show up much earlier because producers say that many people who arrive on time won't get to audition by the time it is their turn.

6. Check the "American Idol" website daily for the most up-to-date information about audition and line-up times. The show cautions that plans can change frequently, so keep checking.

7. Bring your wristband, seat number, two forms of identification and the "American Idol" release forms to the auditions. The release forms can be downloaded and printed from the "Idol" website.

8. Bring a parent or legal guardian with you if you are under the age of 18, or you will be turned away. Your parent or guardian must bring proof of their relationship with you, and must be able to sign documents on your behalf.

9. Prepare one or two songs for the audition, which you will sing without accompaniment. If you are recalled to appear a second time, you might have to perform a second song. The producers usually have a list of songs from which you can choose if you are called back.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring food and water with you to the registration and audition. You will be getting up early and standing in line, likely for hours. Being hungry will put a damper on your day and your audition.
• You must between the ages of 16 and 28, as of July 28, 2007, to compete on "American Idol." The producers are specific: You must have been born on or between July 29, 1978 and July 28, 1991.
• Wear generic clothing to your audition--no logos, designer names, sports teams or likenesses of famous people on your clothes. Also, don't wear clothing that reveals tattoos.

Resources

• Official American Idol Website