How to book the Life in the UK Test, and what it costs
Facts checked on GOV.UK on 3 October 2026.
The cost
The test costs £50. You pay when you book, with a debit or credit card. If you fail and book again, you pay £50 again (Book the Life in the UK Test).
How to book
Book online, on the GOV.UK booking service. GOV.UK says that this is the only government service for booking the test.
You need:
- an email address
- a bank card (debit or credit)
- ID from the GOV.UK list
Book at least 3 days before the date that you want (Book the Life in the UK Test).
The name on your booking must match the name on your ID exactly. Check the spelling before you pay.
The ID you can use
If you have an eVisa, book with a share code. You get the share code from your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
If you have no eVisa, GOV.UK lists other documents, for example a valid passport. You can also use a biometric residence permit (BRP) or a biometric residence card (BRC), but only with a time limit. The card can have expired, but by 24 months or less on your test date. The test date must also be before 31 December 2026. The ID must have a photo that looks like you.
Read the full list on Book the Life in the UK Test before you book. Bring the same ID on the day.
Booking and test centres
The UK has over 30 places where you can take the test. You pick one as part of your booking (Book the Life in the UK Test). Choose the centre that is easiest for you to get to. Check the address before the day.
Cancel or change a booking
- You get your £50 back if you cancel at least 3 days (72 hours) before the test. The money goes back to the card that you paid with.
- If you cancel or change the date less than 3 days before the test, you get no money back.
- When the centre cancels your test, a refund is possible. Ask within 3 months of the test date.
- You get no refund if you were late, were ill, brought the wrong ID or documents, or did not let staff take your photo.
Source: Cancellations, refunds and complaints.
Help with a booking
For help with a booking, contact the Life in the UK Test Helpline. GOV.UK gives the email address and the phone number on Book the Life in the UK Test.
If you have a disability, you can ask for help when you book, for example extra equipment.
Before you book
Book when you are ready, because each try costs £50. A good sign is many mock-test scores of 18 or more out of 24. See the pass mark.