The journey to becoming a U.S. citizen requires more than residency, taxes, and good moral character — it also requires passing the USCIS civics test. In 2025, the U.S. government finalized the new civics test 2025, officially known as the 2025 naturalization civics test, which now includes 128 official questions and answers.

This article explains:

• What the civics test is and how it works
• Why USCIS expanded the test
• A history of naturalization test changes
• The full list of 128 civics questions and answers
• Study tips, resources, and FAQs
• How an immigration lawyer can support your naturalization journey

What Is the Civics Test for U.S. Citizenship?

The civics test evaluates an applicant’s understanding of U.S. history and government. It is administered orally during the naturalization interview by a USCIS officer. The civics test is an oral test where applicants must respond verbally.

• Total pool: 128 possible questions from which the test questions are drawn
• Interview: 20 random questions are asked
• Passing requirement: Applicants must provide correct answers to at least 12 questions to pass

The civics test measures knowledge of U.S. government, history, geography, and rights, and is a required step in naturalization.

Why Did USCIS Expand the Test to 128 Questions?

USCIS explained the expansion was intended to:

1. Modernize the test and align with education standards
2. Prevent rote memorization by enlarging the question pool, meaning the civics test now includes more questions about American history and government
3. Respond to policy pressures, particularly under Trump’s second term, which emphasized higher barriers to naturalization. The expansion was also accompanied by stricter reviews of applicants’ eligibility and knowledge.
4. Incorporate public feedback after the failed 2020 rollout

The 2025 civics test requires answering 12 of 20 questions correctly, drawn from 128 official questions.

History of the Civics Test

• 2008 version of the test: 100 questions, simple and accessible.
• 2020 version of the test (Trump administration, president Trump): Expanded to 128 questions, with stricter civics exam formats and increased scrutiny measures implemented during president Trump’s tenure. This version of the test was criticized for its difficulty.
• 2021 (Biden administration): The Biden administration reverted to the 2008 version of the test, restoring the previous format and requirements.
• 2025 version of the test (Trump administration, president Trump’s second term): The Trump administration reintroduced the 128-question version of the test, with some revisions for clarity.

How the New Civics Test Works

• You’ll be asked 20 random questions from the 128.
• You must answer 12 correctly.
• No multiple-choice options — answers must be spoken aloud.
• The test is part of the naturalization interview alongside the English exam.

The USCIS officer will stop administering the test once it is clear that you have either passed by answering enough questions correctly or cannot pass based on your responses.

The Official 128 Civics Questions and Answers

Below is the complete list of 128 civics questions and answers, organized by USCIS categories. The questions cover key figures in U.S. history, such as the founding fathers Alexander Hamilton and James Madison.

American Government

A: Principles of American Democracy

Applicants must demonstrate a basic understanding of American democracy and its foundational principles to qualify for U.S. citizenship.

1. What is the supreme law of the land? – The Constitution
2. What does the Constitution do? – Sets up the government; defines the government; protects basic rights of Americans
3. The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are they? – We the People
4. What is an amendment? – A change to the Constitution; an addition to the Constitution
5. What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution? – The Bill of Rights
6. What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment? – Speech; religion; assembly; press; petition the government
7. How many amendments does the Constitution have? – Twenty-seven (27)
8. What did the Declaration of Independence do? – Announced our independence from Great Britain; declared our independence; said the U.S. is free
9. What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence? – Life; liberty; pursuit of happiness
10. What is freedom of religion? – You can practice any religion, or not practice a religion
11. What is the economic system in the United States? – Capitalist economy; market economy
12. What is the “rule of law”? – Everyone must follow the law; leaders must obey the law; government must obey the law; no one is above the law

B: System of Government

13. Name one branch or part of the government. – Congress; legislative; President; executive; courts; judicial
14. What stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful? – Checks and balances; separation of powers
15. Who is in charge of the executive branch? – The President
16. Who makes federal laws? – Congress; Senate and House of Representatives; U.S. or national legislature
17. What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress? – The Senate and House of Representatives
18. How many U.S. Senators are there? – 100
19. We elect a U.S. Senator for how many years? – Six (6)
20. Who is one of your state’s U.S. Senators now? – [Answers vary; see Senate list]
21. The House of Representatives has how many voting members? – 435
22. We elect a U.S. Representative for how many years? – Two (2)
23. Name your U.S. Representative. – [Answers vary; see House list]
24. Who does a U.S. Senator represent? – All people of the state
25. Why do some states have more Representatives than other states? – Because of the state’s population; some states have more people
26. We elect a President for how many years? – Four (4)
27. In what month do we vote for President? – November
28. What is the name of the President of the United States now? – [Current President; see White House]
29. What is the name of the Vice President of the United States now? – [Current VP]
30. If the President can no longer serve, who becomes President? – The Vice President
31. If both the President and Vice President can no longer serve, who becomes President? – The Speaker of the House
32. Who is the Commander in Chief of the military? – The President
33. Who signs bills to become laws? – The President
34. Who vetoes bills? – The President
35. What does the President’s Cabinet do? – Advises the President
36. What are two Cabinet-level positions? – Secretary of State; Secretary of Defense; Attorney General; Secretary of Education, etc.
37. What does the judicial branch do? – Reviews laws; explains laws; resolves disputes; decides if a law goes against the Constitution
38. What is the highest court in the United States? – The Supreme Court
39. How many justices are on the Supreme Court? – Nine (9)
40. Who is the Chief Justice of the United States now? – [Current Chief Justice; see Supreme Court]
41. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the federal government. What is one power of the federal government? – To print money; to declare war; to create an army; to make treaties
42. Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states. What is one power of the states? – Provide schooling and education; provide protection; provide safety; give a driver’s license; approve zoning and land use
43. Who is the Governor of your state now? – [Answers vary by state]
44. What is the capital of your state? – [Answers vary]
45. What are the two major political parties in the United States? – Democratic and Republican
46. What is the political party of the President now? – [Answer varies by administration]
47. What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now? – [Current Speaker; see House.gov]

C: Rights and Responsibilities

48. There are four amendments to the Constitution about who can vote. Describe one of them. – Citizens 18 and older can vote; you don’t have to pay a poll tax; any citizen can vote (women and men); a male citizen of any race can vote
49. What is one responsibility that is only for U.S. citizens? – Serve on a jury; vote in a federal election
50. Name one right only for U.S. citizens. – Vote in a federal election; run for federal office
51. What are two rights of everyone living in the United States? – Freedom of expression; freedom of speech; freedom of assembly; freedom to petition; freedom of religion; right to bear arms
52. What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance? – The United States; the flag
53. What is one promise you make when you become a U.S. citizen? – Give up loyalty to other countries; defend the Constitution and laws; obey the laws; serve in the military if needed; serve the nation; be loyal to the U.S.
54. How old do citizens have to be to vote for President? – 18 and older
55. What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy? – Vote; join a political party; help with a campaign; join a civic group; run for office; write to a newspaper
56. When is the last day you can send in federal income tax forms? – April 15
57. When must all men register for the Selective Service? – At age 18; between 18 and 26

American History

A: Colonial Period and Independence

58. What is one reason colonists came to America? – Freedom; political liberty; religious freedom; economic opportunity; escape persecution
59. Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived? – American Indians; Native Americans
60. What group of people was taken to America and sold as slaves? – Africans; people from Africa
61. Why did the colonists fight the British? – High taxes; British army stayed in their homes; no self-government
62. Who wrote the Declaration of Independence? – Thomas Jefferson
63. When was the Declaration of Independence adopted? – July 4, 1776
64. There were 13 original states. Name three. – New Hampshire; Massachusetts; New York; New Jersey; Virginia; etc.
65. What happened at the Constitutional Convention? – The Constitution was written; the Founding Fathers wrote the Constitution
66. When was the Constitution written? – 1787
67. The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the Constitution. Name one of the writers. – James Madison; Alexander Hamilton; John Jay; Publius
68. What is one thing Benjamin Franklin is famous for? – U.S. diplomat; oldest member of the Constitutional Convention; first Postmaster General; writer of “Poor Richard’s Almanac”
69. Who is the “Father of Our Country”? – George Washington
70. Who was the first President? – George Washington

B: 1800s

71. What territory did the United States buy from France in 1803? – The Louisiana Territory; Louisiana
72. Name one war fought by the United States in the 1800s. – War of 1812; Mexican-American War; Civil War; Spanish-American War
73. Name the U.S. war between the North and the South. – The Civil War; the War Between the States
74. Name one problem that led to the Civil War. – Slavery; economic reasons; states’ rights
75. What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did? – Freed the slaves (Emancipation Proclamation); saved the Union; led the U.S. during the Civil War
76. What did the Emancipation Proclamation do? – Freed the slaves; freed slaves in the Confederacy; freed slaves in Confederate states
77. What did Susan B. Anthony do? – Fought for women’s rights; fought for civil rights

C: Recent American History and Other Important Information

78. Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s. – World War I; World War II; Korean War; Vietnam War; (Persian) Gulf War
79. Who was President during World War I? – Woodrow Wilson
80. Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II? – Franklin Roosevelt
81. Who did the United States fight in World War II? – Japan, Germany, and Italy
82. Before he was President, Eisenhower was a general. What war was he in? – World War II
83. During the Cold War, what was the main concern of the United States? – Communism
84. What movement tried to end racial discrimination? – Civil Rights Movement
85. What did Martin Luther King, Jr. do? – Fought for civil rights; worked for equality for all Americans
86. What major event happened on September 11, 2001, in the United States? – Terrorists attacked the United States
87. Name one American Indian tribe in the United States. – Cherokee; Navajo; Sioux; Chippewa; Choctaw; Pueblo; Apache; etc.

Integrated Civics

A: Geography

88. Name one of the two longest rivers in the United States. – Missouri River; Mississippi River
89. What ocean is on the West Coast of the United States? – Pacific Ocean
90. What ocean is on the East Coast of the United States? – Atlantic Ocean
91. Name one U.S. territory. – Puerto Rico; U.S. Virgin Islands; American Samoa; Northern Mariana Islands; Guam
92. Name one state that borders Canada. – Maine; New Hampshire; Vermont; New York; Michigan; Minnesota; etc.
93. Name one state that borders Mexico. – California; Arizona; New Mexico; Texas
94. What is the capital of the United States? – Washington, D.C.
95. Where is the Statue of Liberty? – New York Harbor; Liberty Island

B: Symbols

96. Why does the flag have 13 stripes? – Because there were 13 original colonies; the stripes represent the original colonies
97. Why does the flag have 50 stars? – Because there is one star for each state; each star represents a state
98. What is the name of the national anthem? – The Star-Spangled Banner

C: Holidays

99. When do we celebrate Independence Day? – July 4
100. Name two national U.S. holidays. – New Year’s Day; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day; Presidents’ Day; Memorial Day; Independence Day; Labor Day; Veterans Day; Thanksgiving; Christmas

Additional Questions (Expanded 128 Pool)

In 2025, USCIS added 28 new questions beyond the original 100, resulting in more questions and a larger pool of possible questions that may be asked on the test. These changes mean applicants must prepare for a greater number of possible questions covering U.S. history, civics, and government. Some of the new questions also highlight American innovation, showcasing achievements in technology, industry, and progress as part of the civics content. Examples include:

1. Name one responsibility of the judicial branch. – To interpret the law; to ensure justice
2. Who represents the United States to foreign countries? – The Secretary of State
3. What is one reason checks and balances are important? – To prevent one branch from having too much power
4. Who has the power to declare war? – Congress
5. Who is the U.S. Attorney General? – [Current officeholder]
6. What are the first three words of the Declaration of Independence? – “We hold these”
7. What role does the Electoral College play? – It elects the President
8. How long is a term for a Supreme Court Justice? – For life; until retirement or death
9. What is the motto of the United States? – In God We Trust
10. Who wrote the national anthem? – Francis Scott Key
11. Who was President during the War of 1812? – James Madison
12. What year did women gain the right to vote? – 1920
13. Who was President during the Cuban Missile Crisis? – John F. Kennedy
14. Who signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964? – Lyndon B. Johnson
15. Name one U.S. military branch. – Army; Navy; Air Force; Marines; Coast Guard; Space Force
16. What is the U.S. national bird? – The Bald Eagle
17. Name one state in the Pacific Ocean. – Hawaii
18. Name one state in New England. – Massachusetts; New Hampshire; Vermont; Maine; Rhode Island; Connecticut
19. What U.S. territory is in the Pacific Ocean? – Guam; American Samoa
20. What is one promise you make in the Oath of Allegiance? – To support and defend the Constitution; to bear arms if required
21. Who was the first woman elected to Congress? – Jeannette Rankin
22. Who was the President during World War I? – Woodrow Wilson
23. What war was fought in the 1950s? – Korean War
24. Who was the first African American Supreme Court Justice? – Thurgood Marshall
25. Who was the first Hispanic Supreme Court Justice? – Sonia Sotomayor
26. Who was the first woman Supreme Court Justice? – Sandra Day O’Connor
27. What year was the Constitution ratified? – 1788
28. What is one purpose of the United Nations? – To promote peace and security; to encourage cooperation among nations

Passing Score and Retesting

• You must provide the correct answer to at least 12 out of 20 questions to be considered as having passed the civics test.
• Two chances per application.
• If you fail, you retake only the failed portion.

Study Tips

• Use USCIS official study materials.
• Review flashcards and apps.
• Practice mock interviews.
• Attend community classes and workshops.

FAQs on the New USCIS Civics Test: 128 Questions and Answers

The following FAQ list is organized into four main categories:

Test Logistics

What is the new USCIS civics test?The civics test is part of the U.S. naturalization process. Every applicant for naturalization must take the test, which evaluates applicants’ knowledge of government, history, geography, and civic responsibilities.

How many questions are on the new civics test?There are 128 official civics questions published by USCIS.

How many questions will I be asked during the interview?Citizenship applicants will be asked 20 randomly selected questions.

What is the passing score for the civics test?You must answer 12 of 20 questions correctly.

Are the questions multiple-choice?No. The test is oral. The officer asks questions, and you must answer in your own words.

Do I need to memorize all 128 questions and answers?Yes. Any of the 128 may be asked, so you must prepare for all.

What happens if I fail the civics test?You will have one more chance within 60–90 days to retake the failed portion.

How many times can I take the test?You have two attempts per naturalization application. The new rules apply to applications filed on or after the implementation date.

Study Preparation

What topics do the 128 civics questions cover?
American Government, Principles of Democracy, Rights and Responsibilities, American History, Geography, Symbols, and U.S. Holidays.

Do I need to give exact wording from the USCIS guide?
No. Officers accept answers that show understanding.

How long should I study for the civics test?
Preparation depends on your English skills and background knowledge. Most applicants study for several weeks or months.

What resources are best for studying?
The official USCIS study guide, flashcards, mobile apps, practice interviews, and community citizenship classes.

What if I get nervous during the test?
You can ask the officer to repeat or rephrase the question. Mock interviews help reduce anxiety.

Exemptions & Special Rules

Do older immigrants take the same 128 civics questions?Some exemptions apply:

• Age 50+ with 20 years of residence, or
• Age 55+ with 15 years of residence → May take the test in your native language; eligible applicants can take the test in their preferred language.

What is the 65/20 exemption?Applicants age 65+ with 20 years of residency study a simplified list of 20 special questions.

What if I cannot answer in English?Unless you qualify for a language exemption, you must demonstrate ability to answer in English.

Are there disability waivers?Yes. Form N-648 allows certain applicants with medical or developmental disabilities to request exemptions.

Content & Policy

Why did USCIS expand the civics test to 128 questions?
The official name of the exam is the naturalization civics test. USCIS expanded the test to modernize it, discourage memorization, and ensure new citizens have deeper civic knowledge. The Department of Homeland Security oversees the development and implementation of the naturalization civics test, ensuring it aligns with current eligibility requirements and civics requirements for applicants. The changes are designed to ensure that those who wish to become U.S. citizens fully embrace American values and principles, reflecting the responsibilities and privileges of sacred citizenship and the most sacred citizenship.

Does the civics test change depending on who is President?
The structure does not change often, but some answers (like the name of the current President or Speaker of the House) will always update with new administrations.

What is the difference between the 2008 test and the 2025 test?

• 2008 test: 100 questions, 10 asked, pass by answering 6 correctly.
• 2025 test: 128 questions, 20 asked, pass by answering 12 correctly.
  The new test, effective mid October with an official implementation date of October 20, 2025, introduces updated eligibility requirements and civics requirements for all applicants.

Is the civics test harder now?
Yes. The expanded pool and higher passing threshold make it more challenging, but it is still achievable with preparation. Permanent residents, lawful permanent residents, and those with lawful permanent or lawful permanent resident status must meet these new requirements before applying to become U.S. citizens through citizenship applications or naturalization applications.

Will the civics test change again in the future?
Possibly. Changes often reflect political priorities, and applicants should be prepared for additional updates as policies and procedures continue to evolve.

You Are Not Alone in Facing the New Civics Test

Preparing for the USCIS civics test can feel overwhelming. The expansion to 128 official questions has left many immigrants stressed, uncertain, and fearful of making mistakes in front of a federal officer. You are not alone in feeling anxious. For many, this test represents not just facts and history—it represents the future of their families, their security, and their dream of becoming a U.S. citizen.

This is where having an experienced, compassionate immigration lawyer by your side makes all the difference.

Attorney Richard T. Herman has spent more than 30 years guiding immigrants through the most intimidating parts of the U.S. immigration system. He understands the fear and stress of facing the federal government, especially now in a climate where the rules keep changing. With a proven record, deep knowledge of naturalization law, and a reputation for treating every client with dignity and respect, Richard Herman is more than an attorney—he is a champion for immigrants and their families.

You don’t have to walk into this test alone. With the right preparation, legal guidance, and support, you can take the civics test with confidence, knowing you are fully prepared for every question and every step.

Get Peace of Mind. If you have questions about the new civics test for naturalization, the 128 questions, exemptions, or the broader naturalization process, reach out today. Attorney Richard T. Herman and the Herman Legal Group are here to guide you with skill, compassion, and strength.

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Comprehensive Resource List for the New USCIS Civics Test (128 Questions)

Federal & Government Resources

• USCIS – Study for the Test / Civics ResourcesThe official USCIS hub with the full list of 128 civics questions and answers, flashcards, interactive practice tests, and study guides.
• USCIS – 2025 Civics TestExplains the new test format: 20 questions asked, 12 correct to pass, and provides downloadable resources like 128 Civics Questions (M-1778) and One Nation, One People.
• USCIS – The Naturalization Interview & TestDetails how the civics test is given during the naturalization interview, alongside the English test and application review.
• DHS – Citizenship ResourcesDepartment of Homeland Security’s resource page linking to official guides, community tools, and citizenship preparation programs. The Department of Homeland Security oversees citizenship resources and the implementation of naturalization test updates.
• GPO – USCIS Educational PublicationsU.S. Government Publishing Office page where you can order printed study materials in bulk for classrooms or community programs.
• USCIS News Releases – Naturalization Test AnnouncementsThe official news release announcing the 2025 civics test and explaining the policy changes.

Professional Associations & Advocacy Organizations

• Center for New AmericansProvides free and low-cost naturalization services, including civics test preparation and citizenship classes.
• National Immigration ForumAdvocacy organization that publishes research and commentary on naturalization, immigrant integration, and civics education.
• New American EconomyOffers research and policy analysis on immigration and naturalization trends, including the impact of citizenship policies.
• New York Public Library – Citizenship ResourcesProvides free citizenship classes, practice tests, and access to official study guides.
• Montgomery County Citizenship Resource PageLocal government example of how communities provide civics test support, study guides, and bilingual preparation materials.

Study Aids & Supplemental Tools

• 128 Civics Questions (M-1778) PDFOfficial USCIS PDF containing all 128 civics questions and their accepted answers.
• USCIS Flashcards, Practice Tests, and AudioFree tools to memorize and practice civics questions, including downloadable flashcards, MP3s, and practice quizzes.
• USCIS Multilingual Study MaterialsTranslations and study guides in Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and more.
• Smithsonian – Preparing for the Oath: U.S. History and Civics for CitizenshipAn interactive learning tool that uses historical objects, photos, and stories to teach civics test concepts.
• 100 Civics Questions (2008 Test) with AudioWhile the 2008 version applies only to older applications, it is still useful for comparison and study practice.

Best Practices for Using These Resources

1. Start with the official USCIS PDF (M-1778), since it is the authoritative list.
2. Use flashcards and practice tests daily to reinforce memory.
3. Stay updated through USCIS news releases, since some answers (like current officeholders) change over time.
4. If English is a barrier, rely on multilingual USCIS guides and local library programs.
5. Combine formal study with community-based classes for interview practice.
6. Note: Updates to the civics test do not affect the English language requirements, including the writing section, which remains a required part of the naturalization process.