Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) becomes a U.S. citizen. This guide walks you through who qualifies, what the process looks like, what it costs, and how to prepare — with links to the official USCIS sources at every step.
Most people naturalize after holding a green card for several years, filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, attending a biometrics appointment and an interview, passing the English and civics tests, and taking the Oath of Allegiance. From filing to oath typically takes several months to over a year depending on your field office.
At a high level, becoming a citizen looks like this:
Which civics test you take depends on when you filed Form N-400, not your interview day. On the 2008 test (filed before October 20, 2025), the officer asks up to 10 questions and most applicants need 6 correct. On the 2025 test (filed on or after that date), the officer asks 20 questions and you need 12 correct. See which civics test you study. You will also be tested on your ability to read, write, and speak English. Studying early is the single best way to walk in confident. CivicsExam.com offers flashcards, practice exams, and progress tracking for the civics questions so you can practice the matching bank. Official study materials are also available at uscis.gov.
Study all 128 questions and check exactly when you can file the N-400.