HISTORY GOVERNMENT TEST INFO

The History and Government Test, also known as the "Civics Test" is administered by the USCIS. This is a required step in the naturalization process, and all applicants (with some exceptions) must pass the test before taking the Oath of Allegiance and officially becoming United States citizens.

A new redesigned naturalization exam will take effect on October 1, 2008. The following rules apply as to which test (current or redesigned) a naturalization applicant needs to take:

Applies BEFORE October 1, 2008 and is scheduled for his or her naturalization interview BEFORE October 1, 2008, he or she will take the current test.

Applies BEFORE October 1, 2008 and is scheduled for his or her naturalization interview AFTER October 1, 2008, he or she can choose to take the current test or the redesigned version.

Applies AFTER October 1, 2008, he or she will take the redesigned version.

Is scheduled for his or her naturalization interview AFTER October 1, 2009, regardless of when he or she applied, he or she will take the redesigned version.