Before you book
The Exam
24 multiple-choice questions. 45 minutes. 18 correct answers to pass.
Before paying for the test
Check these points before you book:
- whether you usually need the test
- how the test is booked
- what you must bring on test day
- what happens if you pass or fail
Who needs the test?
You usually need to pass the test if you are applying for:
- British citizenship
- settlement in the UK, also called indefinite leave to remain or ILR
You usually do not need the test if you:
- are under 18
- are 65 or over
- have already passed the test for an earlier application
- have a long-term physical or mental condition and give the required medical evidence
Check the official GOV.UK guidance before you book. Exemption rules and evidence requirements can change.
Booking the test
Book through the official GOV.UK booking service.
The test costs £50. You must book online at least 3 days in advance.
To book, you need:
- an email address
- a debit or credit card
- an accepted form of ID
The name on your booking must match the name on the ID you use to book.
What to bring on test day
Bring the same original ID you used when booking. Do not bring a copy or screenshot.
Your photo is taken on the day to confirm your identity. If you do not bring the correct ID, or you refuse the photo, you cannot take the test and you will not get a refund.
Use GOV.UK as the final source for accepted ID rules before you travel.
What happens after the test
If you pass, you get a unique reference number. You need this number for your citizenship or settlement application.
If you fail, you can rebook. You have to pay each time.
Common traps
Questions can come from any part of the study material.
You do not need to memorise dates of birth or death.
Do not book through a copycat website.
Do not bring different ID from the ID used to book.
Do not lose the reference number you get after passing.
Do not wait until the last minute. GOV.UK says to book at least 3 days in advance.
A short PDF with test numbers, ID reminders, date anchors and common wording traps.
Common questions
How many questions are in the test?
The test has 24 multiple-choice questions.
How many answers do you need to pass?
You need 18 correct answers. That is 75%.
How long is the test?
The time limit is 45 minutes.
What should you bring to the test?
Bring the same original ID that you used to book the test. Check the current GOV.UK accepted ID rules before test day.
Can you take family members or children?
No. GOV.UK says you cannot bring children or other family members with you to the test centre.
What happens if you fail?
You can rebook as many times as you need, but you must pay each time.
Where should you book?
Use the official GOV.UK booking service. It is the only official government service for booking the test.