How to book the Life in the UK test (2026): cost, ID and centres
Book the Life in the UK test on the official government booking site, at least 3 days before you want to sit it. It costs £50. You need an email address, a debit or credit card, and accepted ID: an eVisa share code, or a valid passport or other listed photo ID. The name you book under must match your ID exactly.
The test is 24 questions on British life, values and history, and you get 45 minutes.
Before you start
You need three things:
- An email address. Your booking confirmation is sent here.
- A debit or credit card to pay the £50 fee.
- Accepted ID (see below). The name you type when booking must match it exactly.
Step by step
- Go to the Life in the UK Test page on GOV.UK and follow the Start now link. This is the only official booking service.
- Enter your details exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Choose a test centre. There are over 30 across the UK.
- Pick a date at least 3 days ahead, and a time.
- Pay £50 by card and keep the confirmation email.
Which ID you can use
If you have an eVisa, sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration account and get a share code. You use the share code instead of a card.
Without an eVisa, you can use one of these, as long as it is valid and the photo looks like you:
- a passport
- an EU, Swiss, Icelandic, Liechtenstein or Norwegian national ID card
- a Home Office travel document with a photo (emergency travel documents don’t count)
- a biometric residence permit or card, if the test is within 24 months of its expiry date and before 31 December 2026
If you have none of these, contact UKVI before you book.
If you need help on the day
Ask for any special arrangements when you book, such as extra equipment or help getting into the centre. If you have changed your name or gender and don’t want your previous details seen at the centre, email the Home Office before booking; GOV.UK gives the address on its test page.
Who doesn’t need to book
You don’t need to take the test if you are under 18, aged 65 or over, or have already passed it. If a long-term physical or mental condition makes it hard to take, you can send an exemption form or a doctor’s letter with your application instead.
Help with booking
The Life in the UK Test Helpline is on 0800 015 4245, Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm.
Common questions
Is there only one place to book the test?
Yes. GOV.UK says its booking site is the only official way to book. Other websites that offer to book it for you are not the government service.
Can I book the test for tomorrow?
No. You have to book at least 3 days before your test.
Can I use a biometric residence permit as ID?
For now, yes. A BRP or BRC is accepted if your test is within 24 months of the card's expiry date and before 31 December 2026, whichever comes first. If you have an eVisa, use a share code instead.
Do I need to take the test if I'm over 65?
No. People aged 65 or over, people under 18, and people who have already passed don't need to take it. People with a long-term physical or mental condition can apply for an exemption.
Sources
Practise for the Life in the UK test on your phone
Life in the UK Test 2026 Kit has practice questions from every chapter of the handbook, timed mock tests and a daily study plan.