Life in the UK Test Prep Get the app

Who needs to take the Life in the UK test?

You may need to pass the Life in the UK test as part of an application for British citizenship or for settlement in the UK, also called Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Who does not need to take it

According to GOV.UK, you do not need to take the test if you:

  • are under 18
  • are 65 or over
  • have passed it before
  • have a long-term physical or mental condition, confirmed by an exemption form or a letter from a doctor

If you passed it before

You only need to pass once. When you pass you get a unique reference number, and the Home Office uses it to check your result when you apply. Keep it somewhere safe.

Is it the same as the English language test?

No. The Life in the UK test checks what you know about British traditions, customs, history and law. The English language requirement for citizenship and settlement is a separate rule, with its own ways of proving it. GOV.UK explains both on its citizenship and English language pages.

Next steps

If you need to take it, read how to book the test and start revising with the four-week study plan.

Checked against GOV.UK on 13 November 2026. Rules can change, so check GOV.UK before you apply.