Do I need the Life in the UK test for ILR?

Yes. The Life in the UK test is a mandatory requirement for all ILR applications, regardless of your route. Exemptions exist for people aged 65 or over and those with certain disabilities or medical conditions.

When should I take the Life in the UK test?

You can take the test at any time before submitting your ILR application. Most people take it a few months before they plan to apply, giving themselves time to study and retake if necessary. The pass does not expire.

Can I use my Life in the UK test pass for citizenship too?

Yes. The Life in the UK test pass is valid for both ILR and citizenship. You only need to pass it once. If you passed it for ILR, you do not need to take it again when you apply for citizenship.

What if I fail the test close to my ILR application deadline?

You can retake the test after 7 days. If you are running out of time, you may need to delay your ILR application until you pass. You cannot submit an ILR application without a valid pass (unless you qualify for an exemption).

Life in the UK Test for ILR: What You Need to Know

The Life in the UK test is required for all ILR applications. You should take the test before submitting your ILR application. The pass does not expire and is valid for both ILR and future citizenship applications. Exemptions are available for people aged 65+ and those with qualifying disabilities.

The Test as an ILR Requirement

Regardless of which route you are using to apply for ILR ( Skilled Worker, spouse visa, long residence, or others), you must pass the Life in the UK test before applying. The only exceptions are:

People aged 65 or over at the time of application
People with certain physical or mental conditions

See our full exemptions guide for details.

When to Take the Test

The Life in the UK test pass does not expire. You can take it well in advance of your ILR application. A good strategy is:

Start studying 2-3 months before you plan to apply for ILR
Book and take the test about 1-2 months before your application
This gives you time to retake if needed (7-day minimum between attempts)

Book through the GOV.UK booking page. See our booking guide for tips on finding available slots.

How to Prepare

For detailed preparation advice, see our complete test guide and study guide. Key tips:

Read the official handbook thoroughly
Take practice tests regularly
Focus on the key topics
Aim for consistent scores above 85% on practice tests before booking

Including the Pass in Your ILR Application

When you pass, you receive a pass notification letter. Include this with your ILR application documents. The letter contains your unique pass reference number, which the Home Office can verify.

Keep the original letter safe. If you lose it, you can request a replacement from the Life in the UK test service.

For the full list of documents needed, see our ILR documents checklist.

From ILR to Citizenship

Your Life in the UK test pass is valid for both ILR and citizenship. When you later apply for British citizenship, you do not need to take the test again. Simply include the same pass notification letter with your citizenship application.

Cost

The test costs £50 per attempt. See our cost guide for a full breakdown. For any changes to the test in 2026, see our 2026 changes guide.