The civics test is part of the U.S. naturalization interview. A USCIS officer asks questions about American government, history and geography. Applicants who filed Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025 take the 2025 civics test: up to 20 questions from a list of 128, and you need 12 correct to pass.
Practice out loud with our free citizenship civics practice test.
Key takeaways
- 2025 test: up to 20 questions from 128, and 12 correct passes.
- The officer stops once you get 12 right or 9 wrong.
- Filed before October 20, 2025? You take the 2008 test (10 questions, 6 to pass).
- You get two chances: fail one part and you’re retested on that part within 60–90 days.
USA Citizenship Civics Test: Quick Facts
- Given by
- USCIS officer (oral)
- Question bank
- 128 questions (2025 version)
- Asked
- Up to 20
- To pass
- 12 correct
- Applies to
- N-400 filed on/after Oct 20, 2025
Civics Test 2025 vs. 2008
| 2008 test | 2025 test | |
|---|---|---|
| Question bank | 100 | 128 |
| Questions asked | Up to 10 | Up to 20 |
| Needed to pass | 6 | 12 |
| Who takes it | N-400 filed before Oct 20, 2025 | N-400 filed on/after Oct 20, 2025 |
Applicants aged 65+ with 20+ years as a permanent resident study a shorter list of questions marked for them.
More on Civics Test 2025 vs. 2008 →The English Test
The naturalization test also checks English speaking (during the interview), reading (read one of three sentences aloud) and writing (write one of three sentences). Some older, long-term residents may take the civics test in their own language.
More on The English Test →Free practice test
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Go to the USA Citizenship Civics Test practice test →USA Citizenship Civics Test FAQs
How many questions are on the U.S. citizenship test?
For the 2025 version, the officer asks up to 20 questions from a list of 128. You need 12 correct.
Full answer →Which civics test do I take?
It depends on your N-400 filing date: on or after October 20, 2025 means the 2025 test, and earlier means the 2008 test.
Full answer →What happens if I fail the civics test?
You’re retested on the part you failed, usually within 60–90 days. Failing again leads to denial, but you can reapply.
Full answer →Is the Florida civic literacy exam the same?
No. That’s a college graduation requirement in Florida, an education exam this site doesn’t cover.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information. Rules, fees and procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with the official agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.