Citizenship test guide
USCIS Civics Test
Quick answer
The USCIS civics test is the part of the naturalization test that checks an applicant’s knowledge of U.S. government and history. A USCIS officer asks the civics questions aloud during the naturalization interview. The question bank and scoring format depend on the test version assigned to the applicant.
Key facts
What Is the USCIS Civics Test?
The USCIS civics test is an oral test of U.S. government and history given as part of the naturalization process. A USCIS officer asks civics questions during the interview, and the applicant answers aloud. The real test is not presented as a multiple-choice quiz.
How Many Civics Questions Are Asked?
For applicants assigned the 128-question test version, USCIS asks up to 20 civics questions. The test can end earlier once the applicant reaches the passing or failing threshold.
What Score Do You Need to Pass the Civics Test?
For the 128-question version, you need 12 correct answers to pass the civics test. USCIS stops the test once the applicant reaches 12 correct answers or 9 incorrect answers.
Is the USCIS Civics Test Multiple Choice?
No. The real USCIS civics test is oral. The officer asks each question aloud, and the applicant gives the answer aloud. Multiple-choice questions can be useful for practice, but USCIS does not give multiple-choice answer options during the actual civics test.
Where the Test Questions Come From
The 128-question version uses the published USCIS civics question bank covering American government, history and integrated civics. Study the 128 USCIS civics questions and answers.
Which Civics Test Applies to You?
The applicable civics test version depends on when Form N-400 was filed and current USCIS rules. Confirm the version shown for your case before studying, especially if you filed around the transition between test versions.
What Happens During the Naturalization Interview?
The officer also reviews Form N-400 and the applicant’s background. Unless an exception applies, English speaking, reading and writing are evaluated as part of the naturalization examination. Read what to expect at the naturalization interview.
Practice for the USCIS Civics Test
Use the complete question bank, take a 20-question USCIS civics practice test, and follow the civics test study guide.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Is the real civics test multiple choice?
No. USCIS administers the civics questions orally. Multiple-choice practice is a learning method.
Can the officer stop the test early?
Yes. For the 128-question version, the test stops when the applicant reaches 12 correct answers or 9 incorrect answers.
Are exact words required?
Accepted responses depend on the official question and scoring guidance. Study the official material and practise expressing the answer clearly.
Use official information for your case
This independent guide is for education and test preparation. Confirm test rules, forms, appointments and changing answers with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This website does not provide legal advice.
Last reviewed: August 10, 2026