Life in the UK Test Practice

Life in the UK Test Requirement for ILR and Citizenship

✓ Last verified: 2026-07-28

The Life in the UK Test is a requirement for many people applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain or British citizenship.

The test checks knowledge of life in the United Kingdom, including history, government, laws and traditions.

1Who needs the Life in the UK Test?

Many applicants applying for:

  • settlement (ILR)
  • British citizenship

must pass the Life in the UK Test unless they qualify for an exemption.

2Test format

The official Life in the UK Test consists of:

  • 24 questions
  • 45 minutes

Questions are based on information from the official Life in the UK Handbook.

3Topics covered

The test includes topics such as:

  • British history
  • government and law
  • rights and responsibilities
  • traditions and customs
  • UK society

4Preparing for the test

Effective preparation usually includes:

  • studying the official handbook
  • practising questions
  • reviewing explanations
  • revising weaker topics

Practice questions can help learners become familiar with the format.

5Booking the test

You must book the Life in the UK Test online, at least 3 days in advance, through the only official government booking service.

Key booking facts:

  • The test currently costs £50 (always check GOV.UK for the current fee, as prices can change).
  • There are over 30 test centres across the UK, and you choose which one to use when you book.
  • To book, you need an email address, a debit or credit card, and an accepted form of ID.
  • If you have an eVisa, you can use a share code to book instead of a physical document, see our eVisa guide for how to generate one.
  • The name on your booking must exactly match the name on your ID.
  • You do not need to take the test if you are under 18, are 65 or over, have already passed it before, or have a long-term physical or mental condition supported by an exemption form or doctor's letter.

6What happens at the test

On the day, here is what to expect:

  • You have 45 minutes to answer 24 questions based on the official Life in the UK handbook.
  • You cannot bring children or other family members into the test centre.
  • You must bring the same original ID you used to book (not a copy or screenshot), and your photo will be taken on the day to confirm your identity.
  • You will not be able to take the test, and will not get a refund, if you bring the wrong ID or refuse to have your photo taken.
  • If you pass, you'll receive a unique reference number, which you need for your citizenship or settlement application.
  • If you fail, you can rebook as many times as you need, paying the fee each time.
  • If you cancel or rearrange at least 3 days (72 hours) before your test, you get a refund. Cancelling or rearranging within 3 days does not qualify for a refund.

✅ Checklist

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Life in the UK Test required for ILR?▾
Many ILR applicants need to pass the Life in the UK Test unless exempt.
Is Life in the UK Test required for citizenship?▾
Most adult citizenship applicants need to pass the test unless exempt.
How many questions are in the Life in the UK Test?▾
The official test contains 24 questions, and you have 45 minutes to answer them.
How much does the Life in the UK Test cost?▾
The test currently costs £50, booked through the official GOV.UK service. Fees can change, so always check GOV.UK for the current price.
What do I need to book the Life in the UK Test?▾
You need an email address, a debit or credit card, and an accepted form of ID (or a share code if you have an eVisa). The name on your booking must exactly match the name on your ID.
What pass mark do I need for the Life in the UK Test?▾
You must score 75% or more (at least 18 out of 24 questions correct) to pass.
Can I get a refund if I cancel my Life in the UK Test?▾
Yes, if you cancel or rearrange at least 3 days (72 hours) before your test. Cancelling within 3 days of the test does not qualify for a refund.
What happens if I fail the Life in the UK Test?▾
You can rebook and retake the test as many times as you need, but you must pay the fee again each time.

Suggested next step

Practice Tests→

📖 Related Guides

→Practice Tests→Government and Law Study Guide→British History Study Guide

🔗 Official Sources

Last updated: 2026-07-28 • Category: Immigration Guides

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