How to Book the Life in the UK Test: Fee, ID & eVisa Guide

Book only through the official GOV.UK service. The test costs £50, must normally be booked online at least three days in advance, and requires identity details that exactly match your accepted evidence.

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Quick facts

Official fee: £50
Book ahead: At least 3 days
Booking service: GOV.UK
Centres: More than 30
eVisa holders: Use a share code
Driving licence: Not accepted

Where should you book?

Always start at GOV.UK’s official booking page. The government describes it as the only official government booking service. LINUK provides preparation and mock tests; it does not book the official test.

What do you need to book?

an email address you can access
a debit or credit card
accepted proof of identity

Enter your name exactly as it appears in your identity evidence.

Using an eVisa

If you have an eVisa, GOV.UK says to use a share code as proof of identity. Sign in to your UKVI account and select the option to prove your immigration status for another purpose.

What other ID can you use?

a valid passport
a valid identity card from the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway
a valid photo travel document, excluding emergency travel documents
an expired BRP or BRC only where it satisfies the current time limits

A UK driving licence is not included in the current list.

Can you use an expired BRP or BRC?

In limited circumstances. Current guidance says the test must take place no later than 24 months after the date printed on the card, or by 31 December 2026, whichever comes first. Check GOV.UK again before relying on this transitional rule.

How to book step by step

Open the official GOV.UK service, and no other booking website.
Create or sign in to your booking account with an email address you can access.
Copy your identity details exactly as they appear on your evidence.
Search the live service for a test centre near you.
Choose a date that leaves you enough preparation time, at least three days ahead.
Pay the £50 fee and keep the confirmation email.

Before paying, take a full 24-question mock test and make sure your performance is comfortably above 75%.

Changing or cancelling

GOV.UK says you normally receive a refund when you cancel at least 72 hours before the test. A cancellation or rearrangement within three days normally does not receive a refund.

What to bring on test day

If you booked using a physical identity document, bring that same original document. Copies and screenshots are not accepted. If your identity can be checked through an eVisa, you do not need to show a physical document.

Common booking mistakes

using an unofficial booking website
assuming a driving licence is accepted
entering a name that differs from the identity evidence
relying on an expired BRP/BRC without checking the deadline
booking too close to an application deadline

Frequently asked questions

How much does the Life in the UK Test cost?

The official test fee is £50 for each attempt.

How early do I need to book?

GOV.UK says you must book online at least three days in advance. Appointment availability varies by centre.

Can I use a UK driving licence?

No. A UK driving licence is not included in the current GOV.UK list of accepted identity documents for this test.

Can I use an eVisa?

Yes. Sign in to your UKVI account and generate a share code for proving your immigration status for another purpose.

Can I change or cancel my appointment?

Yes. A cancellation normally qualifies for a refund when made at least 72 hours before the test. Changes within three days normally do not receive a refund.

Official sources

Rules can change. Check the linked GOV.UK pages before booking a test or submitting an immigration or citizenship application.