Today is the last day to register for the February 2012 LSAT, so if you haven’t signed up yet, today’s the day. Okay, well there’s also the late registration option, which will allow you to put off signing up until the 20th, but it’ll cost you an extra $68 – a hefty fine for simple procrastination.

Here’s what you need to do. Go to the LSAC website, and create a LSAC account if you have not done so already. Login to your account and click Register for the LSAT. During the registration, you’ll have to pick a test center. Not all test centers are created equal, so don’t just pick the closest. I would recommend doing a little Google research to find rankings or reviews of the site you’re considering, or ask your instructor for suggestions. The February LSAT has traditionally been the least attended, so you shouldn’t have to worry about wait lists (fingers crossed). Then cough up the cash; it’s a $138 registration fee (just be glad you saved that $68 – today only: 33% off!).

Registering is only the beginning though. The February LSAT is almost exactly a month away – still plenty of time to study, but in addition to studying thoroughly, there are a couple of things that need to happen before February 11. First, look up directions to your test center and plan a dry-run visit. Do it on a Saturday, at approximately the same time as you’ll drive out on the 11th (that is, god awful early) – figure out exactly how long it will take, where you need to go, where parking is… trust me, you don’t want to get lost on the morning of the LSAT, stressing out about having to park in a red zone as you frantically run across campus to get to the center on time. The LSAT needs no added stress.

You’ll also need to get your LSAT necessities compiled. Print out your admission ticket, and make sure you have a valid, government-issued photo ID. You’ll also need to bring a small headshot (between 1×1 and 2×2 inches large, clearly showing your head and shoulders). Wait until the week of the test to have the picture taken, as it needs to look exactly like you on test day (e.g. whether you are clean-shaven or bearded, even your hair cut). It’s an absolutely ridiculous requirement, but just to be safe, I would get a passport picture taken at your local Walgreens.

And of course, you’ll need to study, take practices exams, review them, and repeat until you are consistently scoring in your desired range. Registering for the February LSAT should help motivate you to study for it. Few things are more motivating than looming deadlines.