You need a passport or biometric residence permit (BRP) for the Life in the UK test. Driving licences are not accepted. The ID you bring on test day must be the same document you used when booking — and the name must match exactly.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Document | Accepted? |
|---|---|
| Passport (any nationality) | ✅ Yes |
| Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) | ✅ Yes |
| National identity card (EU/EEA) | ✅ Yes |
| UK driving licence | ❌ No |
| Non-biometric residence permit | ❌ No |
| Birth certificate | ❌ No |
| Utility bill or bank statement | ❌ No |
Quick Overview
✅ Passport or BRP are the most commonly used — both accepted
✅ EU/EEA national identity cards are also accepted
⚠️ Driving licences are not accepted under any circumstances
⚠️ The ID you use to book must be the same ID you bring on the day
⚠️ If your name on your ID differs from your booking name, you may be turned away
📌 If you arrive without valid accepted ID, you will not be able to sit the test and lose your £50
💡 Check your ID is not expired before booking — expired documents are not accepted
Which ID Is Accepted?
Passport
Any valid passport is accepted — UK or foreign. This is the most straightforward option. If you have a passport, use it.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
A valid BRP is accepted. This is the most common ID used by candidates who do not have a passport readily available.
National Identity Card (EU/EEA citizens)
Valid national identity cards issued by EU or EEA countries are accepted. The card must be current and not expired.
Why Driving Licences Are Not Accepted
Driving licences — including UK photocard driving licences — are not on the approved list of accepted ID for the Life in the UK test. This is a firm rule with no exceptions.
If you only have a driving licence as photo ID, you will need to obtain a passport or BRP before booking.
The ID Must Match Your Booking
When you book the test online, you enter the details of your photo ID — type and document number. The ID you bring on test day must be:
- The same document type you entered when booking
- The same document number
- In the same name as the booking
If there is any discrepancy — including a middle name present on the ID but not entered during booking, or a name spelled differently — the test centre may refuse to let you sit the test. You would lose your £50 fee and need to rebook.
What to Bring on Test Day
- Your accepted photo ID (passport, BRP, or national identity card)
- Your booking confirmation (email printout or on your phone)
- Arrive 15 minutes early
You cannot bring phones, notes, or any study materials into the test room. Leave them in your bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an expired passport?
No. Your ID must be valid and in date. An expired passport is not accepted.
What if my BRP is being renewed and I do not have it?
If your BRP is with the Home Office for renewal, you may have a letter of acknowledgement but this is not accepted as ID for the test. Contact the test centre booking service to explain your situation — you may need to wait until your BRP is returned before sitting the test.
My name has changed since my ID was issued — is it still valid?
If the name on your ID does not match the name you used to book, this can cause a problem at the test centre. Ensure your booking name matches your ID exactly. If you have recently changed your name, use ID that reflects your current legal name.
Can I use a digital version of my ID on my phone?
No. You must present the physical document.
What if I forget my ID on the day?
If you arrive without accepted ID, you will not be allowed to sit the test. The £50 fee is forfeited. You will need to rebook and pay again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming a driving licence will be accepted. It will not. This is one of the most common reasons candidates are turned away. Check your ID before booking.
Bringing different ID than you used to book. Even if both documents are valid, mismatches cause problems. Use the same document at the test centre that you entered details for when booking.
Forgetting to check your ID is still valid. If your passport or BRP expires between booking and your test date, you will not be able to sit the test. Check the expiry date before booking.
How This Aligns With Official Guidance
ID requirements on this page are based on official GOV.UK guidance for the Life in the UK test booking and attendance process. Last reviewed: April 2026.
Official Resources
Book the Life in the UK test — GOV.UK The official booking page — where you enter your ID details when reserving your slot.
The simplest rule: use your passport if you have one. If not, your BRP. Double-check the name matches your booking, and check it has not expired. That covers the most common ID issues at the test centre.