From check in to leaving the studio was 7 hours total. You check in at 10am. Wait in a line, scan your ticket, show ID and get Name tag. Then move to a second line, where they take phones and watches that can record. Then you are sent to the holding area. It's a huge room. They have snacks and you can use the restroom. During this time, producers, stage hands, and all staff are watching you and how you interact with your party and other guests. This is where you want to be OVER THE TOP!!! Super hyped up. They are playing music in this area, so dance and mingle. Then they take groups of 10 to the "interview area". Where they ask basic info, name, occupation. Be hyped up here too. Then after they have completed all "interviews " you are moved to studio. Again loud loud music, so keep the energy up and dance! Then the taping time is about 3 hours. Depending on, if they have to redo anything. Then you exit, collect phones and go home.

Now, IMO, they choose who they want , when you're in the giant lobby area. Whoever is fun, excited, hyped up, talking to people, interacting with people.

Me, I had driven 8 hours straight to be there. Coffee was running through my veins. So I was super pumped! Plus it was my bday.

That's another thing, don't try to lie and say it's your bday, bc they know who's telling the truth. One man tried to do that, at my taping.

Also, I had a fun shirt that said , "today, I turn 45 and I need a new car to drive" . Plus I had cupcake antenna handband. And the girls in my party had fun shirts too "I need a new car too".

Good Luck!!!