English & Civics Test Exceptions for Naturalization (N-400)

Understanding Exceptions for the U.S. Naturalization Test

If you are applying for U.S. citizenship (naturalization) using Form N-400, you may qualify for exceptions to the English language requirement and/or the civics (U.S. history and government) test depending on your age, the number of years you've been a green card holder, or if you have a qualifying medical condition.

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1. English Language Exemptions

You may be exempt from the English language requirement if:

 50/20 Exception

• You are 50 years old or older, and

• You have lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 20 years.

 55/15 Exception

• You are 55 years old or older, and

• You have lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident for at least 15 years.

What this means:

• You do not need to take the English reading, writing, or speaking test.

• You still must take the civics test, but you can take it in your native language with the help of an interpreter.

2. Special Civics Test Consideration

 65/20 Simplified Civics Exception

• You are 65 years old or older, and

• You have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years.

What this means:

• You do not have to take the English test.

• You will take a simplified version of the civics test:

  • Only study 20 questions (from a designated list)

  • You will be asked up to 10 questions

  • You must answer at least 6 correctly

  • You may take the test in your native language with an interpreter

3. Medical Disability Waiver (Form N-648)

You may be exempt from both the English and civics tests if:

• You have a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that prevents you from learning English and/or U.S. civics.

Requirements:

• File Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions)

• Completed and signed by a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or clinical psychologist

If approved:

• You may be excused from both the English and civics tests

Summary Table:

Exception type	Age	LPR (Green Card) Duration	English Test	Civics Test	Language
50/20 Exception	50+	20 years	Exempt	Required (100 Qs)	Native Language
55/15 Exception	55+	15 years	Exempt	Required (100 Qs)	Native Language
65/20 Special Civics	65+	20 years	Exempt	Simplified (20 Qs)	Native Language
Medical Disability (N-648)	Any	Any	May be exempt	May be exempt	N/A