Important: GOV.UK says you must bring the same original ID used to book. Copies, screenshots, and photos of ID are not accepted.
Accepted ID documents
You must bring the same original ID document you used when booking the test, unless your booking confirmation gives eVisa/share-code instructions. The name on your ID or eVisa details must match the name you used when booking exactly. GOV.UK currently lists a valid passport, a valid photo travel document, a valid ID card from the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway, or a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or Biometric Residence Card (BRC).
For a BRP or BRC, GOV.UK says the test must be no later than 24 months after the expiry date printed on the card or before 31 December 2026, whichever comes first. This is a temporary rule, so check the current accepted-ID list before booking. Digital copies, photocopies, screenshots, and photographs of your ID are not accepted.
What NOT to bring
Bring only what you need and follow the centre’s instructions for phones, watches, notes, bags, and other belongings. You cannot use study materials or personal devices during the test. GOV.UK also says you cannot bring children or other family members into the centre.
You do not need your own stationery or study equipment. Your booking confirmation is the best source for any centre-specific arrival or storage instructions.
What happens if your ID doesn’t match
If the name on your ID document does not match the name on your booking, you will be turned away and will not be allowed to sit the test. GOV.UK also says your photo will be taken on the day; refusing the photograph means you cannot take the test. You will not receive a refund in either situation.
Common reasons for a mismatch include using a married name versus a maiden name, transliteration differences in non-Latin names, or bringing a different document from the one used at booking. If your name has changed since you booked — for example, due to marriage — contact the test centre as soon as possible to update your booking before test day.
If you realise on the day that you have brought the wrong document, the centre staff cannot make exceptions. You will need to rebook and pay the £50 fee again. This is why double-checking your ID against your booking confirmation the night before is so important.
Key Facts
- Bring the same original ID used to book, unless your booking uses eVisa instructions
- Name on ID must match your booking exactly
- No photocopies, screenshots, or digital copies
- A BRP or BRC is accepted only within GOV.UK’s temporary expiry limits
- Your photo is taken at the centre to confirm your identity
- Wrong ID or refusing the photograph means no test and no refund
Frequently asked questions
Can I show a photo or photocopy of my ID?
No. GOV.UK says you must bring the same original ID used to book. A copy, screenshot, or photograph of the document is not accepted.
What if I used an eVisa to book?
Use the eVisa share-code process when booking and follow the instructions in your booking confirmation. Contact the Life in the UK Test Helpline before test day if the instructions are unclear.
What happens if I bring the wrong ID?
You will not be allowed to take the test and you will not receive a refund. Check the document and exact booking name before travelling to the centre.
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