Guide contents
Booking and test day
  1. Test format
  2. Test fee
  3. Test ID
  4. Test validity
  5. Lost reference
Start learning
  1. First steps
  2. Settlement and citizenship
  3. Values and principles
  4. What is the UK?
History
  1. History overview
  2. Early Britain
  3. The Middle Ages
  4. Tudors and Stuarts
  5. A global power
  6. The 20th century
  7. Britain since 1945
Society
  1. Modern society
  2. The UK today
  3. Cities and currency
  4. Religion
  5. Customs
  6. Sport and culture
  7. Leisure
  8. Culture facts
Government and law
  1. Government overview
  2. Democracy
  3. Constitution
  4. Government
  5. International institutions
  6. Law and courts
  7. Rights and tax
  8. Community role

Test day ID

What ID do you need for the Life in the UK test?

In short

Use the same accepted ID method that you used when booking. If you have an eVisa, GOV.UK says to use a share code as evidence of your identity.

Reviewed: May 2026.

Checklist

Before test day

  • Name matches: your booking name should match your ID evidence.
  • Accepted ID method: check the current GOV.UK booking rules before you pay.
  • eVisa: prepare the share code if that is your identity evidence.
  • No old assumptions: do not rely on old forum posts or screenshots.
  • Booking email: read the final instructions from your booking confirmation.

eVisa and share code

If you have an eVisa, use a share code as evidence of your identity for the test.

The question people often ask is whether a share code counts as an Immigration Status Document.

For test-day purposes, the practical answer is: use the identity method listed in the current official booking rules. If your status is digital, that means using the share code route.

Do you need proof of address?

The current booking rules list accepted identity methods. They do not tell you to bring a separate proof of address.

Use the current GOV.UK rules, not old posts.

What happens at the test centre?

Your photo is taken on the day to confirm your identity.

If you do not have the right ID evidence, or you refuse to have your photo taken, you may not be allowed to take the test.

Common questions

Can you use a driving licence for the Life in the UK test?

No. A UK driving licence is not in the current GOV.UK accepted ID list for the Life in the UK test.

Use an accepted identity method such as an eVisa share code, passport, BRP/BRC, EU/EEA/Swiss identity card or travel document.

Can you use an eVisa share code?

Yes, if that is your digital immigration status evidence. Prepare the share code before test day.

Should the booking name match your ID?

Yes. Check the name carefully before you pay.

Do you need to bring your booking email?

Read it before test day. It contains the final instructions for your appointment.

Official source

Related pages