The civics test
The civics test is oral. A USCIS officer asks you up to 20 questions from the list of 128 civics questions (2025 version), and you need 12 correct answers to pass.
The officer stops once you have 12 correct answers, or once you have 9 wrong ones.
Which version you take
It depends on when you filed Form N-400. If you filed on or after October 20, 2025, you take the 2025 civics test with 128 questions. If you filed before that date, you take the 2008 civics test.
This site covers the 2025 version.
Answers that change
Some answers change with elections or appointments: your U.S. senators and representative, the Speaker of the House, the President, the Vice President, the Chief Justice and your governor. Answer with the official serving at the time of your interview.
USCIS lists answers that have changed at uscis.gov/citizenship/testupdates.
65/20 special consideration
If you are 65 or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for 20 or more years, you may study just the 20 questions marked with an asterisk. The officer asks you 10 of them, and you need 6 correct answers to pass. You may also take the civics test in the language of your choice.
The English test
The English part has a reading test and a writing test. For reading, you must read one of three sentences aloud correctly. For writing, you must write one of three sentences correctly. USCIS publishes vocabulary lists to study from.
How to prepare
Study one topic at a time, then take the practice tests on this site. Each has 20 questions, like the interview. Questions whose answer depends on current officeholders are not in the practice tests, so look those up for your state before your interview.
Frequently asked questions
How many civics questions do I need to get right?
On the 2025 civics test you need 12 correct answers out of up to 20 questions. With the 65/20 special consideration, you need 6 correct answers out of 10.
How many civics questions are there?
The 2025 version of the civics test has 128 questions. The officer picks the questions you are asked from this list.
Is the civics test written or oral?
The civics test is oral: the officer asks the questions and you answer out loud.
Can I take the civics test in my own language?
Yes, under the 65/20 special consideration you may take the civics test in the language of your choice.
Which version applies to me?
Which civics test you take depends on the date you filed Form N-400. If you filed on or after October 20, 2025, you take the 2025 test, and if you filed before that date, you take the 2008 test.
Sources
Updated: November 2026