Citizenship Test & Naturalization FAQ

There are 100 possible civics questions. During your interview, a USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 of these questions. You must correctly answer at least 6 out of 10 to pass the civics portion.

Yes, the 100 civics questions are set by USCIS. However, some answers change over time. For example, the names of current elected officials must reflect who is currently serving. Always check for updated answers before your interview.

If you are 65 or older AND have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, you qualify for the modified civics test. You only need to study the 20 questions marked with an asterisk. You still answer 10 questions and need 6 correct.

Generally no. The civics test must be in English. However, if you qualify for a medical exception using Form N-648, an interpreter may be permitted. Consult an immigration attorney if this applies to you.

The officer continues asking questions until you answer 6 correctly or exhaust all 10 questions. You pass if you answer 6 correctly. If you reach 6 correct before all 10 are asked, the officer stops and the remaining questions are not asked.

Most citizenship interviews last between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case and how quickly the civics portion goes.

Bring your appointment notice, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), valid passport and all travel documents, a state ID or driver license, and any documents specifically requested in your appointment letter.

If you fail the civics portion or the English test at your initial interview, USCIS will schedule a second interview within 60 to 90 days. You will re-take only the portions you failed, not the entire interview.

If you fail the initial and second interview, your naturalization application will be denied. You may file a new N-400 application and begin the process again. Consider working with an immigration attorney before reapplying.

Generally the interview must be conducted in English to test your English ability. Interpreters are only allowed in specific medical exception cases with Form N-648 approval.

Generally you must be a permanent resident for 5 years. If you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen, the requirement is 3 years. Military service members may have different requirements.

You must have lived continuously in the United States as a permanent resident for the required period, either 5 or 3 years. Long trips abroad lasting 6 months or more can interrupt your continuous residence.

No. You need to demonstrate a basic ability to read, write, and speak English. The test is about functional competence, not perfection. Examiners are trained to understand accents and non-native speech.

USCIS requires you to demonstrate good moral character during the statutory period of 5 or 3 years. This means no criminal convictions, no lying on immigration forms, filing and paying taxes, and generally following the law.

As of 2024, the Form N-400 filing fee is $640, plus an $85 biometrics fee, for a total of $725. Fee waivers using Form I-912 are available for applicants who cannot afford the fee.

Processing times vary significantly by USCIS field office. Generally, expect 8 to 24 months from the time you file your N-400 to your naturalization ceremony. Check uscis.gov for current processing times.

Yes, but trips of 6 months or more may disrupt your continuous residence. If you must travel for extended periods, consult an immigration attorney before your trip.

The Oath of Allegiance is a sworn declaration you make at your naturalization ceremony. You renounce allegiance to other countries and pledge loyalty to the United States. After taking the oath, you are officially a U.S. citizen.