Questions & answers
Everything people ask about the test
Clear, accurate answers to the questions that come up most before booking the Life in the UK Test — pass mark, format, cost, booking and more.
How many questions are on the Life in the UK Test?
The Life in the UK Test has 24 multiple-choice questions. You get 45 minutes to answer them, and you must answer at least 18 correctly (75%) to pass.
What is the pass mark for the Life in the UK Test?
The pass mark for the Life in the UK Test is 75%. That means you must answer at least 18 of the 24 questions correctly. 6 or more wrong answers is a fail.
How long is the Life in the UK Test?
You have 45 minutes to answer all 24 questions on the Life in the UK Test. That’s a generous amount of time — most candidates finish in 15–20 minutes.
How much does the Life in the UK Test cost?
The Life in the UK Test costs £50 to book. You pay the £50 fee again every time you need to resit, so passing first time saves money. Always confirm the current fee on GOV.UK.
How do you book the Life in the UK Test?
You book the Life in the UK Test online through the official GOV.UK service. You must book at least 3 days in advance, choose a registered test centre near you, pay the £50 fee, and use ID details that exactly match your booking.
What do you need to take to the Life in the UK Test?
Bring valid photo ID (such as your passport or biometric residence permit) and proof of address, both matching the details on your booking. Without the correct documents you’ll be turned away and lose the £50 fee.
Is the Life in the UK Test hard?
The Life in the UK Test is not hard if you prepare, but it catches out people who don’t. The difficulty comes from memorising specific dates, names and facts from the official handbook — not from trick questions. Consistent practice is what turns it into an easy pass.
What happens if you fail the Life in the UK Test?
If you fail, you can take the Life in the UK Test again. There’s no limit on the number of attempts, but you must book a new appointment, pay the £50 fee again, and usually wait at least 7 days before resitting.
What happens after you pass the Life in the UK Test?
When you pass, you’re given a pass notification with a unique reference number at the test centre on the day. You use that number in your application for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or British citizenship. A pass does not expire, so you only ever take the test once.
Who needs to take the Life in the UK Test?
You generally need to pass the Life in the UK Test if you’re applying for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) or British citizenship (naturalisation). People under 18 or aged 65 and over are usually exempt, as are some people with a long-term health condition.
What is the format of the Life in the UK Test?
The Life in the UK Test is a computer-based exam of 24 multiple-choice questions taken in 45 minutes at an approved test centre. Questions are drawn from the official handbook and appear one at a time on screen; you get your result the same day.