U.S. Naturalization Civics Test FAQ
Start with the civics test guide, then practice from your dashboard.
USCIS Civics Test
What is the naturalization civics test?
The civics test is the U.S. history and government part of the naturalization test. A USCIS officer asks the questions orally during your naturalization interview.
Which civics test applies to me?
USCIS says applicants who filed Form N-400 before October 20, 2025 take the 2008 civics test. Applicants who filed on or after October 20, 2025 take the 2025 civics test.
How does the 2025 civics test work?
The 2025 test is oral. USCIS asks 20 questions from the list of 128 civics questions. You must answer 12 correctly to pass.
How does the 2008 civics test work?
The 2008 test is oral. USCIS asks up to 10 questions from the list of 100 civics questions. You must answer 6 correctly to pass.
Can official answers change?
Yes. Some answers change because of elections or appointments. Use current officeholders at the time of your USCIS interview and confirm those answers on USCIS.gov.
What is the 65/20 special consideration?
Applicants who are 65 or older and have been lawful permanent residents for 20 or more years take a shorter civics test: the officer asks 10 questions from a designated set of 20, marked with an asterisk on the official list, and 6 correct answers pass. Separate exceptions about the language of the test exist and depend on your personal facts; confirm them with USCIS, a licensed immigration attorney, or an accredited representative.
Interview And Retest
Is the civics test the same as the English test?
No. Naturalization testing includes English and civics requirements unless you qualify for an exception or accommodation. The English portion includes speaking, reading, and writing.
What happens if I do not pass?
USCIS generally gives two attempts. If you fail the English or civics test at the initial interview, USCIS retests you on the failed portion between 60 and 90 days later.
Does USCIS publish official questions?
Yes. USCIS publishes official civics question lists and study materials. CivicsMate is a practice tool and does not replace USCIS instructions or official materials.
Using CivicsMate
What can I practice here?
You can practice civics questions by topic, run exam-style sessions, review missed questions, use flashcards, and track progress.
Can I study on my phone?
Yes. CivicsMate runs in your browser on desktop, tablet, and mobile devices.
How do I contact support?
For support, billing, or content questions, contact contact@civicsmate.com until the production support address is configured.
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