Life in the UK Test Time Limit: Beat the Clock in 2026

Official answer: the Life in the UK test time limit in 2026

Definition: The Life in the UK Test time limit is 45 minutes for 24 multiple-choice questions. The pass mark is 75% (18 correct answers).

According to the UK government, you’ll face 24 questions on British traditions and customs with 45 minutes to complete them. The same citizenship test duration applies whether you’re taking it for settlement (ILR) or citizenship. See the official overview on GOV.UK.

The exact duration and pass mark

• Duration: 45 minutes for the full test (not per question).
• Questions: 24 multiple-choice items.
• Pass mark: 75% (at least 18/24) — confirmed by legal guidance such as Paragon Law.

What counts toward the 45 minutes (and what doesn’t)

• Not included: Check-in, ID verification, locker use, seat assignment, and on-screen instructions.
• Included: The countdown begins when you start the on-screen test. Every second spent reading or reviewing questions is part of the 45 minutes.

How the exam timer works on test day

Understanding the on-screen countdown helps you keep calm and avoid surprises. Here’s how timing typically works at authorised centres.

On-screen countdown and alerts

• You’ll see a visible timer at the top of the test interface counting down from 45:00.
• Time warnings usually appear at key points (for example, around 10 minutes remaining).
• The timer covers the whole test — there is no per-question timer.

Check-in vs. testing time

• Admin tasks (ID checks, storing belongings, instructions) happen before your test and do not reduce your 45 minutes.
• Bring acceptable photo ID that looks like you, as required by GOV.UK.

If there’s a technical issue

• If the system freezes or crashes, alert the invigilator immediately. Centres typically pause or restart as appropriate.
• Do not rely on “free pauses.” You should assume the clock is running unless staff confirm otherwise.

Want to practise with the same pressure? Use realistic 45-minute mocks in the Life in the UK Test App to build your timing instinct before test day.

Pacing math: time per question and a simple strategy

Turning the clock into a plan helps you avoid preventable time loss and boosts accuracy.

The numbers: 45 minutes ÷ 24 questions

• You have about 1 minute 52 seconds per question on average.
• Some questions are quick; use that time to fund tougher items.
• Set milestones (e.g., 12 questions done by ~22–23 minutes).

The two-pass method

1. Pass 1 — Answer easy wins: Read the stem first, pick obvious answers, and flag anything uncertain.
2. Pass 2 — Return to flags: Use remaining time to work through the harder ones, eliminating distractors quickly.
3. Final sweep: Ensure every question has an answer before submitting.

When to guess and move on

• If you’re not close to an answer after 60–75 seconds, make your best choice, flag it, and move on.
• Leaving items blank is risky — unanswered questions count against your 75% target.

For more pacing tactics, see our strategy guide: Ace the Life in the UK Test with Proven Strategies.

Early finish, pauses, and extra time (accessibility)

Can you finish early?

Yes — if you’re confident, you can submit before the timer ends. Many candidates finish early after solid timed practice.

Pauses and breaks

Once the on-screen timer starts, breaks are generally not allowed. If you leave the room, your test will usually end, so plan ahead.

Who can get extra time and how to request it

• Reasonable adjustments (such as extra time) may be available for documented disabilities; request them during booking and bring evidence.
• Some applicants are exempt from the test (e.g., under 18, 65+, long-term physical or mental condition); check the exemptions on GOV.UK.

If the timer hits zero: what actually happens

Auto-submission and unanswered questions

When time expires, the system will submit your answers automatically. Any unanswered items are treated as incorrect, which can push you below the 75% pass line.

Results, retakes, and fees

• Results are usually given at the test centre shortly after completion. If you pass, keep your pass notification safe for your application.
• If you fail, you can rebook after at least 7 days and pay the standard £50 fee each time, as noted by Paragon Law and GOV.UK.
• You may take the test as many times as needed, paying for each attempt, per DavidsonMorris.

Time-saving tactics that boost your pass odds

Before test day

• Do timed mock tests under 45 minutes to normalise the pressure.
• Target weak areas first; our Ultimate Preparation Guide explains how.
• Create a lean plan and stick to it; use our 2026 study plan template.
• Master definitions and dates that often slow you down.

During the test

• Read the stem first, then scan options for obvious mismatches.
• Eliminate distractors fast; commit to a best answer and move on.
• Flag and return to time-consuming items after you’ve banked easier marks.
• Avoid re-reading the whole chapter in your head — trust your revision.

Also see: 7 Common Life in the UK Test Mistakes to Avoid.

Two practical study schedules to master timing

7-day fast-track plan

1. Day 1: Baseline mock (untimed), then one timed section.
2. Day 2: Content refresh on weakest topics; 1 timed mini-mock.
3. Day 3: Full 45-minute mock; review every miss.
4. Day 4: Dates and definitions drill; 2 short timed sets.
5. Day 5: Full mock in Hard Mode; review.
6. Day 6: Mixed-topic intervals (4 x 12 minutes).
7. Day 7: Final full mock; light revision; rest.

14-day steady plan

1. Days 1–3: Read official material; daily short timed quizzes.
2. Days 4–6: Topic blocks + mini-mocks; build a notes deck.
3. Days 7–9: Full mocks on alternate days; review in between.
4. Days 10–12: Hard Mode sets; focus on accuracy under time.
5. Days 13–14: Two final full mocks; rest and light flashcards.

New to planning? Read: How to Make a Study Plan for the Life in the UK Test (2026), and check the structure of the exam here: How Many Questions Are in Life in the UK Test? 2025 Guide.

Avoid these myths about the test duration

“You have plenty of time; no need to rush”

Without a pacing plan, 45 minutes can feel tight. Build automatic habits with timed mocks so you never over-invest in one question.

“The test is only 30 minutes”

Incorrect — it’s 45 minutes for 24 questions. Planning around the wrong timing leads to poor time management and missed answers.

“You can always take a quick break”

No — once the timer starts, breaks are generally not allowed. Prepare to sit the entire 45 minutes comfortably.

How the Life in the UK Test App helps you beat the clock

Realistic timed mocks and Hard Mode

Simulate the real 45-minute environment with full-length mocks. Hard Mode uses tougher distractors to sharpen decision speed so you spend fewer seconds per question without losing accuracy.

Smart learning assistant and readiness score

Brit-Bear, your built-in learning assistant, surfaces your weak topics and gives a readiness score so you prioritise what matters most. That means less time spent on content you already know.

Comprehensive question bank + offline micro-sessions

Practise anywhere with 650+ questions and detailed explanations — perfect for 5–10 minute timed drills on the go, even offline.

Get the app

Start timed practice today: Download on the App Store or Get it on Google Play.

Quick FAQs on time limit and duration

How long is the Life in the UK test?

45 minutes for 24 multiple-choice questions. Aim for an average pace of about 1 minute 52 seconds per question.

Is the time limit the same for settlement and citizenship?

Yes. The duration and pass mark are the same for both ILR (settlement) and citizenship routes.

Can I bring a watch to manage time?

Smartwatches are not allowed. Use the on-screen timer provided by the test system.

What if I run out of time with unanswered questions?

Your test will auto-submit and any unanswered questions count as incorrect. Use the two-pass method to avoid blanks.

How soon can I rebook if I fail due to time?

You typically must wait at least 7 days before rebooking and pay the £50 fee again.