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The Life in the UK Exam

The exam will contain 24 questions about important aspects of life in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Questions will be based on everything in the handbook, but you won't have to remember dates of birth or death. The questions will be different for every person taking the test at that session.

The test is usually taken in English, although special arrangements can be made if you wish to take it in Welsh or Scottish Gaelic.

You can only take the test at a registered and approved Life in the UK test centre. There are over 30 test centres in the UK. You can only book your test online, at www.gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test. You should not take your test at any other establishment as the Home Office will only accept certificates from registered test centres. If you live on the Isle of Man or in the Channel Islands, there are different arrangements for taking the Life in the UK test.

When booking your test, read the instructions carefully. Make sure you enter your details correctly. You will need to take some identification and proof of your address with you to the test. If you don't take these, you will not be able to take the test.

Exam FAQs​

Who needs to take the test?​

Anyone between 18 and 64 who applies for British citizenship or indefinite leave to remain (ILR) will need a Life in the UK pass certificate.

But, you don't need to take the test if:

  • You're under 18 or over 65
  • You're unable to complete a test due to long-term physical or mental conditions.

How to book your test​

Booking your exam can be done online through the home office website.

You have to book at least three days in advance. Note that time slots can disappear fast, so be sure to plan ahead.

There are over 30 test centres in the UK. You can choose where to take your test when you book.

Booking online will take around 20 minutes, and you'll need to have:

  • an email address
  • a debit or credit card (to pay the test fee)
  • an acceptable form of ID – see full list.

The test fee is £50 (as of October 2023) and if you do not pass, you will need to pay the same each time you take the test.

What happens on the day?​

After you have booked a testing appointment online, you'll receive an email with your booking information. Details will include:

  • a reference number
  • the address of your test centre
  • an arrival time – usually around half an hour before your scheduled start time

Make sure that you arrive early to take your test. If you are late, the centre may deny you entry, and they are unlikely to refund your testing fee.

When you arrive at the testing centre, you need to present a piece of acceptable identification. Ensure that the name and details on your ID correspond with those you provided during the online booking.

The centre attendant will then run through the process with you, and you'll be allowed to place any written materials and electronic devices into a locker or safebox.

You may be given some practice questions to help familiarise yourself with the process. Once complete, the attendant will instruct you how to access your test on the computer, and you'll begin.

Do I have to retake the test?​

No, you only have to pass the exam once. Once you've completed the exam and received your Pass Notification certificate, it's valid for life.

This includes passing the Life in the UK test as part of your settlement (ILR) application for British citizenship.

The certificate doesn't expire, you may need to present it when updating your documentation (for example, to update your name or replace a lost identity card).

What happens if you fail?​

If you fail, you'll need to wait seven days before you can retake your exam. You're allowed to take the test as many times as you'd like, but you will have to pay £50 for each booking. Failing does not change your immigration status – you can continue to live in the United Kingdom until your Leave to Remain or current visa expires.

How to study and where to find a guide​

Anyone can pass the test with some dedication and practice. You can find a number of resources online, including the official Home Office guidebooks, or you can use our study guide. It's completely free!

If you fail, you'll need to wait seven days before you can retake your exam. You're allowed to take the test as many times as you'd like, but you will need to pay £50 for each booking. Failing does not change your immigration status – you can continue to live in the United Kingdom until your Leave to Remain or current visa expires.

How much does the test cost?​

The test fee is £50 (as of October 2023) and if you do not pass, you will need to pay the same each time you take the test.

What documents do I need to book?​

To book your test, you will need to prove your identity using one of the acceptable forms of ID.

The following are accepted:

  • Passport (even if expired)
  • UK Driving Licence
  • European ID Card
  • Biometric Residence Permit

See the full up-to-date list.

What documents do I need on the day?​

On the day of the exam, you will need to bring the ID that you used to book the test (you might not be allowed to sit the test otherwise) with you to the test centre.

See the full list of accepted ID's.

What is the difference between different handbooks?​

The life in the UK test was last updated in 2013 (the 3rd edition update).

All handbooks and study guides published since then contain the same information. But you don't need to buy a physical copy, you can just use our guide for free.

Life in England, Life in Britain, or Life in the UK test: which is it?​

The test has many unofficial names, including:

  • British Citizenship test
  • British Nationality test
  • Life in England test
  • Life in Britain test

Although these are used interchangeably, the official name of the test is "The Life in the UK" test.

We will find out later in Part 2 what the difference is, and why these unofficial names are inaccurate.

Do I need to pass my test before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?​

Yes.

To apply for ILR you will need a code that is sent to you on successful completion of your exam.

Are there separate tests for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British Citizenship?​

No.

To attain ILR or Citizenship you only have to pass one test: the Life in the UK Test