Life in the UK Test Requirement for ILR

Most applicants applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) must pass the Life in the UK Test before applying, unless they qualify for an exemption.

The test checks your knowledge of British traditions, history, government and everyday life in the UK.

If the Life in the UK Test requirement applies to you, you should pass the test before submitting your ILR application.

This guide explains the Life in the UK Test requirement for ILR in 2026, including who needs to take it, exemptions, test cost, booking, format, results and what happens if you fail.

If you are unsure whether you need to take the test, call Wembley Solicitors on 020 3417 3700 or complete our online enquiry form for specialist ILR advice.

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Do I Need to Pass the Life in the UK Test for ILR?

If you're aged 18 to 64, you'll need to book and pass the Life in the UK Test with a score of 75% or more before applying for ILR, unless you're exempt.

The test is designed to assess your knowledge of:

• British history
• Government and the law
• The UK's traditions and customs
• Everyday life in the UK

Who Needs to Take the Life in the UK Test for ILR?

Most applicants aged 18 to 64 applying for ILR must pass the Life in the UK Test before applying, unless they qualify for an exemption.

Whether you need to take the test depends on your age, circumstances and immigration route.

If you are unsure, check the requirements that apply specifically to your settlement application before booking the test.

Who Is Exempt from the Life in the UK Test?

You do not need to take the test if you are under 18, aged 65 or over, have already passed it, or have a qualifying long-term physical or mental condition.

If you are claiming an exemption because of a long-term condition, you will need the appropriate medical evidence or exemption form.

Do not assume that an exemption applies simply because you have difficulty taking the test. The relevant requirements must be met.

How Much Does the Life in the UK Test Cost in 2026?

The Life in the UK Test costs £50 in 2026. You must book the test online at least 3 days in advance, and you can choose from more than 30 test centres across the UK.

The test fee is separate from the ILR application fee.

You may also have other costs associated with your settlement application, including:

• ILR application fee
• Immigration solicitor's fees
• English language test fees, where applicable
• Priority or super priority processing fees
• Translation or document-related costs

Read our [ILR Fees & Costs 2026] guide for the full cost of an ILR application.

How Do I Book the Life in the UK Test?

You must book the Life in the UK Test online through the official government booking service at least 3 days in advance. There are more than 30 test centres across the UK, so you can choose a convenient test centre, date and time.

When booking your test, you will need:

• An email address
• A debit or credit card
• An accepted form of photo ID

The name on your booking must exactly match the name on your identity document.

What ID Can I Use?

If you have an eVisa, you should use a share code from your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account when booking.

If you do not have an eVisa, you can generally use:

• A valid passport
• A valid EU, Swiss, Icelandic, Liechtenstein or Norwegian identity card
• A valid photographic travel document, other than an emergency travel document
• A BRP or BRC, subject to the applicable validity rules

Your photo ID must clearly identify you.

How Should I Prepare for the Test?

The Life in the UK Test is based on the official Guide for New Residents. You should study this guide before taking the test.

The official study materials are available in different formats, including:

• Book
• eBook
• Audio
• Official e-learning materials
• Official practice app

What Is the Life in the UK Test Format?

The Life in the UK Test consists of 24 multiple-choice questions based on the official Life in the UK handbook. You have 45 minutes to complete the test and need to score at least 75% to pass.

The questions cover areas such as:

• British history
• Government
• Law
• Society
• Traditions and customs

How Long Does the Life in the UK Test Take?

The Life in the UK Test takes 45 minutes to complete. You'll need to answer 24 multiple-choice questions and score at least 75% to pass.

You should arrive at the test centre with the required identification and allow sufficient time for the centre's identity and security checks.

What If I Have a Disability?

You can request reasonable assistance when booking your test if you have a disability or need additional support at the test centre.

Make any special request when booking so the test centre can make the necessary arrangements.

What Happens If I Fail the Life in the UK Test?

If you fail the Life in the UK Test, you can book and take it again. You'll need to pay the £50 test fee again and pass the test before applying for ILR.

If your ILR eligibility date is approaching, allow enough time to retake the test before submitting your settlement application.

Do Children Need to Take the Life in the UK Test?

No. Children under 18 do not need to take the Life in the UK Test for ILR. The test requirement generally applies to applicants aged 18 to 64, unless they qualify for another exemption.

Need Help with Your ILR Application?

Not sure whether you need to take the Life in the UK Test or whether you have already met the requirement?

Wembley Solicitors is a specialist immigration law firm in London providing advice and assistance with Indefinite Leave to Remain applications.

We can review your immigration route and circumstances and help you understand the requirements you need to meet before submitting your ILR application.

To get specialist advice about your Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) application, speak to a specialist ILR solicitor by calling 020 3417 3700 or completing our online enquiry form.