In brief
- Most adults applying for ILR or British citizenship must pass the Life in the UK Test once; the pass does not expire.
- You may be exempt if you are under 18, 65 or over, or have a long-term condition supported by the official medical exemption form.
- Book only through GOV.UK and bring the original ID you used to book; wrong or mismatched ID can mean no test and no refund.
- The test has 24 questions in 45 minutes and the pass mark is 75% (18 correct answers).
- Keep your unique reference number (URN) and every record of your pass for your application.
- The test does not prove English language ability, which is a separate requirement.
The Life in the UK Test is a computer-based test about British history, government, law and everyday life. Most adults must pass it before applying for indefinite leave to remain (permission to stay in the UK without time limit) or British citizenship. This guide explains the steps and the mistakes that cause problems.
The information here is current at 2 November 2026. The Home Office may change the test in future, so always check GOV.UK before you book.
Step 1: Check whether you must take the test
Most adults applying for indefinite leave to remain or naturalisation (the process of becoming a British citizen) must pass the test.
You only need to pass once. The pass has no expiry date, and it is recorded against a unique reference number. You can use the same pass for a later citizenship application.
Who may be exempt
- Age: You may be exempt if you are under 18 or aged 65 or over. Age is generally checked on the date you apply, not the date of the test.
- Medical reasons: You may be exempt if you have a long-term physical or mental condition that genuinely prevents you from taking the test. A qualified medical professional must complete the official exemption form.
A diagnosis alone does not create an automatic exemption. A condition that makes the test harder, or that is only temporary, may not be enough. If you think you qualify, get advice before you apply.
Step 2: Book through the official service
Book only through GOV.UK. Some other websites charge extra for the same booking.
- Go to the official Life in the UK Test page on GOV.UK.
- Create an account with your email address.
- Enter your personal details and your ID details.
- Choose a test centre and a date.
- Pay by debit or credit card. The fee is £50 for each attempt.
Book in advance. The booking service sets a minimum notice period, and cancelling or rescheduling also needs notice. Check the exact rules when you book, because you may lose your fee if you miss the deadline or do not attend.
If you hold an eVisa (a digital record of your immigration status), GOV.UK says you should use a share code to book. You generate the share code from your UKVI account.
Step 3: Bring the right ID
Test centres are strict about identity. You must bring the original of the same ID you used when you booked. A copy or a screenshot is not accepted.
GOV.UK lists a valid passport as acceptable ID. It also accepts a valid ID card from the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway. Your photo must look like you. Check the full, current list on GOV.UK. Do not assume that other documents are accepted.
On the day:
- The centre takes your photo. If you refuse, you cannot sit the test and you get no refund.
- If you bring the wrong ID, you cannot sit the test and you get no refund.
- Children and family members cannot come into the centre.
Step 4: Prepare with the right material
The test has 24 questions and lasts 45 minutes. The questions are based on the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition). It covers UK history, government, law, customs and values.
You need 75% or more to pass. That means at least 18 correct answers out of 24.
Be careful with unofficial guides. Some websites claim to offer "updated" content, but they are not official. They can help you practise, but they do not replace the handbook. Older editions of the handbook may contain out-of-date content.
Step 5: Results, failing and your reference number
If you pass, you receive a unique reference number (URN). You need this number for your application. Keep every record of your pass: the email, a saved copy of the result in your online account, and any letter you are sent. Write the URN down separately. Because the pass does not expire, you may need it years later.
If you took the test before 17 December 2019, you may hold an older pass letter with a different reference number. If you have lost it, GOV.UK explains what to send with your application. Check the current guidance.
If you fail, you can book again. You pay the fee each time. You may need to wait a short time before your next attempt, so check when you rebook.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Booking with the wrong name or ID details. Your booking details must match your identity document exactly. If your name has changed, check the GOV.UK guidance before you book.
- Bringing a different, expired or copied document. This can mean you are turned away without a refund.
- Using an unofficial booking site. You may pay more than the official fee.
- Studying from old or unofficial material. Use the official handbook as your main source.
- Losing your URN. Keep several records of it.
- Leaving the test too late. Have your pass in hand before you start your application.
- Thinking the test proves your English. It does not. It tests your knowledge of life in the UK. English language ability is a separate requirement with its own evidence. See our separate guide on the English language requirement.
Planning your application
The Life in the UK Test is only one part of an ILR or citizenship application. You may also need to show the required period of residence and meet other conditions. Those depend on your route. If you are applying on the basis of long residence, see our page on ILR based on long residence.
How Garth Coates Solicitors can help
We advise individuals and families on settlement and British citizenship applications, including exemptions and supporting evidence. To discuss your situation, please request a consultation with our team in Bloomsbury, London.
This article is general information and was correct on 3 November 2026. It is not legal advice on your circumstances; immigration rules and fees change often. For advice on your case, request a consultation.
