Your N-400 Interview, Step by Step
The naturalization interview includes three English components — speaking, reading, and writing — plus the civics test, all in one appointment.
The naturalization interview is shorter than most people expect — usually 20 to 40 minutes. Here's exactly what happens. Wondering where it happens? See where you take the citizenship test.
Before you go
- Read your appointment notice carefully. Bring it with you.
- Arrive 15 minutes early. Bring your Green Card, state ID or driver's license, and every passport you've had since becoming a permanent resident.
- Bring any additional documents USCIS asked for in your notice (marriage certificate, tax transcripts, court dispositions).
- Dress the way you would for a job interview.
The interview itself
- You take an oath to tell the truth.
- Speaking test: the officer assesses your English by talking with you about your N-400 application. There's no separate speaking portion.
- Reading test: read one of three sentences correctly. See our reading & writing lists.
- Writing test: write one of three sentences correctly.
- Civics test: up to 10 questions (2008 test) or 20 questions (2025 test) from the official bank. Practice this.
- Application review: the officer verifies your answers on Form N-400.
If you don't pass
You get a second chance. USCIS reschedules you 60–90 days later to retake the portion you failed. If you fail the retest, your application is denied — but you can reapply.
Exemptions
The 65/20, 55/15, and 50/20 rules can change what you're tested on. See the FAQ for details.