The naturalization interview
The civics test is one part of your naturalization interview. If you file Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025, you take the 2025 civics test. An officer from USCIS will ask you up to 20 questions from the official list of 128. You need to answer 12 correctly to pass. The questions are asked out loud. You answer out loud. There is no paper, no multiple choice, no screen. The officer picks the questions and you answer one at a time. As soon as you reach 12 correct answers, or 9 wrong ones, the civics portion is done.
What happens on the day
You will receive an interview notice telling you when and where to go. Bring your Green Card, your passport, and any other documents listed on the notice. The interview covers more than just the civics test. The officer will also check your English and review your N-400 application. The civics questions usually come toward the end. Most interviews take between 15 and 30 minutes in total.
If you are 65 or older
If you are 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years when you file your N-400, you only need to study 20 questions instead of 128. They are the questions marked with an asterisk on the official list. The officer will ask you 10 of them, and you need 6 correct to pass. You may also take the civics test in the language of your choice.
If you don't pass
If you do not pass the civics test, USCIS schedules a second interview 60 to 90 days after the first one. At that interview you only retake the portions you did not pass. If you fail any portion a second time, USCIS must deny your application.
What to study
The 128 questions cover three topics: American Government, American History, and Symbols and Holidays. Some answers change over time, like the name of the current President or your state's senators. Make sure you know the current answers to those questions before your interview.