Citizenship test exceptions: the 50/20, 55/15, and 65/20 rules
Not everyone has to take the test the same way. Depending on your age and how long you've been a permanent resident, you may be able to take the test in your language or study a shorter list. Here are the most common exceptions. Informational material, not legal advice.
The English exception: 50/20 and 55/15
If you meet one of these two rules, you're exempt from the English test (speaking, reading, and writing) and can take the interview and civics test in your language, bringing an interpreter:
- The 50/20 rule: you're 50 or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for 20+ years.
- The 55/15 rule: you're 55 or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for 15+ years.
Note: the exemption is only for English. You still take the civics test — just in the language you choose.
The 65/20 exception: also a shorter list
If you're 65 or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for 20+ years, you get an extra advantage: you study only 20 designated questions from the official bank instead of all 100. You can also take the test in your language.
💡 The 20 designated questions are marked with an asterisk (*) on the official USCIS civics list. If you qualify for 65/20, focus on those.
The medical waiver (Form N-648)
If you have a physical disability, developmental disability, or mental impairment that prevents you from learning English or civics, a licensed medical doctor or clinical psychologist can certify it on Form N-648. If USCIS accepts it, you may be exempt from the English test, the civics test, or both.
The Oath of Allegiance
The exceptions above are about English and civics; the Oath of Allegiance is still part of the process. For people with a disability who cannot understand it, modifications or a waiver of the oath may also be possible.
Don't qualify for any exception?
Then you take the standard test: basic English plus up to 10 civics questions (you need 6 correct) from a bank of 100. It's very passable with a little daily practice. Whatever your case, Lexi builds you a daily path tailored to you, with the official questions and a voice-based mock interview, free.