One of the requirements when applying to naturalize as a US citizen is passing the US citizenship test.

There are two parts to the test: the English test and the civics test, which are used by USCIS to assess your knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of the history, the principles and the form of government of the United States, as well as your ability read, write and speak English.

The English test includes speaking, reading, and writing exercises. Speaking ability is assessed during the naturalization interview, while the reading and writing sections require applicants to correctly read and write simple sentences in English. The civics test is an oral exam where the officer asks up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions. Applicants must answer at least 6 correctly to pass.

Applicants who do not pass on the first attempt are given one more chance within 60 to 90 days. Those with qualifying disabilities may request exemptions or accommodations.

 

Do you need to take the US citizenship test?

 

The US citizenship test is a mandatory part of the naturalization process for most US naturalization applicants. If you have submitted an application for naturalization, unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver, you will need to take the US citizenship test.

 

US citizenship test exemptions

 

Certain applicants, due to age and time as a permanent resident, are exempt from the English requirements for naturalization and may take the civics test in the language of their choice.

An applicant may qualify for an exception from the English requirement, civics requirement, or both requirements. The following exemptions apply:

 

• If you are age 50 or older and have resided in the US as a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years at time of filing you will be exempt from the English language requirement, but will still need to take the civics test. You may, however, take this test in your language of choice using an interpreter.
• If you are aged 55 or older and have resided in the US as a lawful permanent resident for at least 15 years at time of filing, you will again be exempt from the English language requirement, but required to take the civics test.
• If you are aged 65 or older and have resided in the US as a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years at time of filing, you will be exempt from the English language requirement, but you will be given special consideration in respect of the civics test. Here, you will still be required to take the civics test but you will be given a specially designated test form and, as above, will be able to take this test in the language of your choice.
• If you have a medical disability exception, using Form N-648, you may be exempt from the English language requirement, the civics requirement, or even both.

 

Under the final exemption, the English and civics requirements do not apply to naturalization applicants who are unable to comply due to a ‘medically determinable’ physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months.

A licensed medical professional must complete the form and certify, under penalty of perjury, that the applicant’s medical condition prevents the applicant from meeting the English requirement, the civics requirement, or both.

Illiteracy is not a valid reason to seek an exception to the English and civics requirements. In addition, advanced age, in and of itself, is not a medically determinable physical or developmental disability or mental impairment.

 

When do you take the US Citizenship test?

 

The US citizenship test forms part of your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. The test will take place during the course of your interview with a USCIS officer.

 

What can you expect during the citizenship test?

 

The US citizenship test comprises two elements:

 

English Language Proficiency

 

Under the English language requirement, you have to demonstrate an ability to read, write, speak and understand words in ordinary usage. Ordinary usage means comprehensible communication through simple vocabulary and grammar, although this can include noticeable errors in pronouncing, constructing, spelling and understanding completely certain words, phrases and sentences.

This is assessed during the naturalization interview. Your ability to speak and understand English is evaluated by the adjudicating officer through your responses to questions about your application and background. You can ask for any words to be repeated or rephrased, and you can still meet the English language requirement even if you make some errors in pronunciation, spelling and grammar, or do not understand every word or phrase that you are questioned about. The USCIS officer should also give what’s known as ‘due consideration’ on a case-by-case basis in choosing subject matters, phrasing questions and evaluating responses to questions asked during the civics test. This should be based, for example, on age, background and level of education.

For the reading section, you will need to read aloud one out of three sentences correctly. In the writing test, you have to write one out of three sentences correctly.

 

Knowledge of US History and Government (Civics Test)

 

Applicants are asked up to 10 questions from the US Government’s official list of 100. As of March 1, 2021, all applicants are required to take the 2008 version of the civics test. To prepare, applicants should study the 100 civics questions provided by USCIS. To pass, you need to answer at least six questions correctly. All questions are asked orally during the interview.

 

If you pass the US citizenship test

 

Once the test is passed, the USCIS officer will inform you of the next steps. In most cases, the application will be approved on the same day, and you will receive a notice with details about the Oath of Allegiance ceremony, which is needed to complete the naturalization process and for you to officially become a US citizen.

In some cases, an application may require further review, due to administrative processing or background checks, even if the citizenship test is passed. IN these instances, you should follow all USCIS instructions and provide any requested documents without delay.

 

Can you re-sit the US citizenship test?

 

You will be given two opportunities to pass the English and civics tests per naturalization application: the initial examination and the re-examination interview.

If you fail any portion of the test during your first interview, you will be retested on the portion of the test that you failed between 60 and 90 days from the date of your initial interview. On re-examination, you will only be retested on those areas that you previously failed.

In the event that you fail to pass any portion of the US Citizenship test after two attempts, USCIS will deny the naturalization application based on your failure to meet the requirements for citizenship. The officer must also address any other areas of ineligibility in the denial notice.

Unless excused, any failure to appear at the re-examination for testing, or to take the tests at an examination or hearing, counts as a failed attempt to pass the test.

 

 

How to prepare for the US citizenship test

 

It is strongly advised to prepare for your US citizenship test – the better prepared you are, the more confident you will feel on the day of your exam.

 

Understand the Test Format

 

Start by familiarizing yourself with how the test is structured. The English test evaluates your ability to speak, read, and write in English, while the civics test assesses your knowledge of US history and government. Knowing exactly what to expect will help you feel more at ease during your interview.

 

Improve Your English Language Skills

 

During your naturalization interview, a USCIS officer will assess how well you speak and understand English based on your responses to questions about your Form N-400 application. Practicing conversational English by speaking with others, listening to news reports, and reading aloud will help you gain confidence.

For the reading section, you will need to read one out of three sentences correctly. For the writing portion, you must write one out of three sentences correctly. Reviewing the official USCIS vocabulary lists for reading and writing will help you recognize common words that may appear on the test. Writing short sentences and practicing basic English grammar will also help you prepare.

 

Study for the Civics Test

 

The civics test includes 10 oral questions selected from a list of 100 possible questions provided by USCIS. You need to answer at least six questions correctly to pass.

To prepare, study the USCIS materials, including flashcards, study guides, and online practice tests. Focus on key topics such as US history, government structure, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Since some answers, such as the names of elected officials, may change over time, check the USCIS website for updates before your interview.

 

Use Practice Tests and Study Tools

 

Taking practice tests will help you get comfortable with the types of questions you will be asked. The USCIS website offers free practice exams to help you prepare. You can also find citizenship preparation classes at community centers, libraries, and local organizations, where you can receive guided instruction.

 

Create a Consistent Study Routine

 

Studying consistently will help you retain information better than cramming at the last minute. Set aside time each day to review English vocabulary, civics questions, and writing exercises. Breaking up your study sessions into shorter periods will help you stay focused and make learning more effective.

 

Attend Citizenship Classes

 

Many libraries and community organizations offer citizenship classes that cover both English language skills and US civics. Attending a class can provide structured learning and give you access to instructors who can answer your questions and guide you through the material.

 

Practice for the Naturalization Interview

 

During your naturalization interview, the USCIS officer will ask you questions about your Form N-400 application, your background, and your eligibility for citizenship. Practicing answers to these questions in English will help you respond clearly and confidently. Reviewing your application beforehand will ensure that you can discuss your personal details accurately.

 

Check If You Qualify for an Exemption or Accommodation

 

If you are over a certain age or have a medical condition that affects your ability to take the test, you may qualify for an exemption from the English or civics test. Make sure you check the requirements in advance and submit any necessary forms to USCIS before your interview.

 

Prepare for the Final Steps

 

As your naturalization interview approaches, review your study materials, take a final practise test, and make sure you have all required documents ready. Arrive early on the day of your interview and stay calm. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel when answering questions during your test

 

 

 

US civics test questions 2025

 

The following tables include the official civics questions from the USCIS citizenship test, organized by section and number.

The official question document opens with the following guidance:

“On the naturalization test, some answers may change because of elections or appointments. As you study for the test, make sure that you know the most current answers to these questions. Answer these questions with the name of the official who is serving at the time of your eligibility interview with USCIS. The USCIS Officer will not accept an incorrect answer. Although USCIS is aware that there may be additional correct answers to the 100 civics questions, applicants are encouraged to respond to the civics questions using the answers provided below.”

 

A: Principles of American Democracy

 

#	Question	Answer
1	What is the supreme law of the land?	The Constitution
2	What does the Constitution do?	Sets up the government, defines the government, protects basic rights of Americans
3	The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution What are these words?	We the People
4	What is an amendment?	A change (to the Constitution), an addition (to the Constitution)
5	What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?	The Bill of Rights
6	What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?	Speech, religion, assembly, press, petition the government
7	How many amendments does the Constitution have?	Twenty-seven (27)
8	What did the Declaration of Independence do?	Announced independence (from Great Britain), declared independence, said the US is free
9	What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence?	Life, liberty, pursuit of happiness
10	What is freedom of religion?	You can practice any religion, or not practice a religion
11	What is the economic system in the United States?	Capitalist economy, market economy
12	What is the “rule of law”?	Everyone must follow the law, leaders must obey the law, government must obey the law, no one is above the law

 

B: System of Government

 

#	Question	Answer
13	Name one branch or part of the government	Congress, legislative, President, executive, the courts, judicial
14	What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful?	Checks and balances, separation of powers
15	Who is in charge of the executive branch?	The President
16	Who makes federal laws?	Congress, Senate and House of Representatives, US legislature
17	What are the two parts of the US Congress?	The Senate and House of Representatives
18	How many US Senators are there?	One hundred (100)
19	We elect a US Senator for how many years?	Six (6)
20	Who is one of your state’s US Senators now?	Answers will vary
21	The House of Representatives has how many voting members?	Four hundred thirty-five (435)
22	We elect a US Representative for how many years?	Two (2)
23	Name your US Representative	Answers will vary
24	Who does a US Senator represent?	All people of the state
25	Why do some states have more Representatives than other states?	Because of the state’s population, because some states have more people
26	We elect a President for how many years?	Four (4)
27	In what month do we vote for President?	November

 

 

C: Rights and Responsibilities

 

#	Question	Answer
48	There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote Describe one of them	Citizens 18 and older can vote, no poll tax, any citizen can vote, male citizen of any race can vote
49	What is one responsibility that is only for United States citizens?	Serve on a jury, vote in a federal election
50	Name one right only for United States citizens	Vote in a federal election, run for federal office
51	What are two rights of everyone living in the United States?	Freedom of expression, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom to petition the government, freedom of religion, the right to bear arms
54	How old do citizens have to be to vote for President?	Eighteen (18) and older
56	When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms?	April 15
57	When must all men register for the Selective Service?	At age eighteen (18), between eighteen (18) and twenty-six (26)

 

 

D: American History – Colonial Period and Independence

 

#	Question	Answer
58	What is one reason colonists came to America?	Freedom, political liberty, religious freedom, economic opportunity, escape persecution
59	Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived?	American Indians, Native Americans
60	What group of people was taken to America and sold as slaves?	Africans, people from Africa
61	Why did the colonists fight the British?	High taxes, no self-government, British army stayed in their homes
62	Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?	Thomas Jefferson
63	When was the Declaration of Independence adopted?	July 4, 1776
64	There were 13 original states Name three	New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania (other answers include Delaware, Virginia, Georgia, etc)
70	Who was the first President?	George Washington

 

E: Geography and Symbols

 

#	Question	Answer
88	Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States	Missouri River, Mississippi River
89	What ocean is on the West Coast of the United States?	Pacific Ocean
90	What ocean is on the East Coast of the United States?	Atlantic Ocean
91	Name one US territory	Puerto Rico, Guam, US Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands
92	Name one state that borders Canada	Maine, New York, Michigan, Alaska
93	Name one state that borders Mexico	California, Arizona, Texas
94	What is the capital of the United States?	Washington, DC
95	Where is the Statue of Liberty?	New York Harbor

 

F: National Symbols and Holidays

 

#	Question	Answer
96	Why does the flag have 13 stripes?	They represent the original 13 colonies
97	Why does the flag have 50 stars?	Each star represents a state
98	What is the name of the national anthem?	The Star-Spangled Banner
99	When do we celebrate Independence Day?	July 4
100	Name two national US holidays	New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas

 

Need assistance?

 

For professional support with your US citizenship application, contact our US attorneys.

 

US citizenship test FAQS

 

What is the US citizenship test?

The US citizenship test is an exam that all naturalization applicants must take to demonstrate their knowledge of US history, government, and the English language.

 

What does the US citizenship test include?

The test consists of two parts an English test that includes speaking, reading, and writing and a civics test with questions about US history and government.

 

How many questions are on the civics test?

The officer will ask up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions. Applicants must answer at least six correctly to pass.

 

Do I need to take the English test?

Most applicants must take the English test unless they qualify for an exemption based on age and length of time as a permanent resident or a medical condition.

 

What happens if I fail the citizenship test?

Applicants who fail the English or civics test get a second chance to retake the failed portion within 60 to 90 days.

 

How can I prepare for the citizenship test?

Study materials, including flashcards and practice tests, are available from US Citizenship and Immigration Services. It is also helpful to attend citizenship classes or use online resources.

 

Can I take the test in my native language?

Applicants who qualify for an age-based exemption may take the civics test in their native language with an interpreter. The English test is still required unless exempt for medical reasons.

 

Are there accommodations for applicants with disabilities?

Applicants with qualifying disabilities can request accommodations or an exemption from the English and civics requirements by filing Form N-648.

 

How long does the US citizenship test take?

The test is conducted during the naturalization interview and usually lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.

 

What happens after I pass the citizenship test?

If approved the applicant will receive a notice for the Oath of Allegiance ceremony where they will officially become a US citizen.

 

Glossary

 

 

Term	Definition
US Citizenship Test	An exam required for naturalization that assesses an applicant’s knowledge of US history, government, and English language skills.
Naturalization Interview	A meeting with a USCIS officer where the applicant’s Form N-400 is reviewed, the citizenship test is administered, and eligibility for citizenship is confirmed.
USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services)	The government agency responsible for processing immigration and naturalization applications.
Civics Test	A section of the US citizenship test that evaluates an applicant’s knowledge of US history, government, and constitutional principles.
English Language Test	A section of the citizenship test that assesses an applicant’s ability to speak, read, and write in English.
Oath of Allegiance	A formal pledge taken during the naturalization ceremony, where applicants swear loyalty to the US and renounce allegiance to other nations.
Form N-400	The official application for naturalization submitted to USCIS by lawful permanent residents seeking US citizenship.
Biometrics Appointment	A required step in the naturalization process where applicants provide fingerprints, a photograph, and a signature for background checks.
Good Moral Character	A standard required for naturalization that evaluates an applicant’s conduct, including criminal history and compliance with US laws.
Continuous Residence	A requirement for naturalization that mandates applicants to have lived in the US for a specific period without long absences.
Physical Presence	The total number of days an applicant must have physically spent in the US to qualify for naturalization.
Reading Test	A part of the English language exam where applicants must read one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate reading ability.
Writing Test	A part of the English language exam where applicants must write one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate writing ability.
Speaking Test	A section of the English language requirement assessed through responses to questions during the naturalization interview.
Pass Rate	The percentage of applicants who successfully complete the US citizenship test, which is generally high when proper preparation is done.
Civics Study Materials	Official USCIS resources that include practice questions, flashcards, and audio guides to help applicants prepare for the citizenship test.
Test Retake	An opportunity for applicants who fail the English or civics test to retake the failed portion within 60 to 90 days.
Exemption from Test	A waiver granted to certain applicants, such as older permanent residents or those with qualifying disabilities, exempting them from the English or civics test.
100 Civics Questions	The official set of questions provided by USCIS from which applicants will be asked 10 during the civics test.
Naturalization Ceremony	The final step in the citizenship process where applicants take the Oath of Allegiance and receive their Certificate of Naturalization.