Becoming a U.S. citizen is an important achievement, but the naturalization process involves several requirements that applicants must meet before taking the Oath of Allegiance. Applicants must pass (2) citizenship tests before you can qualify for citizenship. What happens if you do not pass the test? Fortunately, failing the citizenship test on the first attempt does not necessarily mean your application will be denied. Understanding the testing process, eligibility requirements, and what happens after a failed exam can help applicants in Texas know what to expect. It is also important to seek professional guidance from an experienced immigration attorney to prepare for the tests and other requirements.
Applying for U.S. Citizenship
The citizenship process begins with Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. An applicant must be at least 18 years old and have been a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least five years. Those married to and living with a U.S. citizen may qualify after three years as permanent residents. Military members and certain other applicants may also qualify under different rules.
Applicants must also satisfy requirements such as having continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. They also must demonstrate good moral character and knowledge of basic English and U.S. civics through passing tests. The requirements can vary depending on the basis for naturalization and an applicant’s individual circumstances.
After filing the N-400, the applicant may be scheduled for biometrics, followed by a naturalization interview. During the interview, a USCIS officer reviews the application and administers the (2) required citizenship tests: an English test and a civics test.
What are the Required Citizenship Tests?
There are (2) required citizenship tests: the English language test and the American civics test. The English portion evaluates speaking, reading, and writing skills. The speaking component is evaluated during the interview with the USCIS officer.
The civics test measures knowledge of U.S. government and history. Importantly, the test used in 2026 depends on when the applicant filed the N-400. Applicants who filed on or after October 20, 2025, generally take the 2025 naturalization civics test. The officer asks up to 20 questions from a list of 128, and the applicant must answer at least 12 correctly to pass.
What Happens if You Failed the Citizenship Test in Texas?
With solid preparation, applicants can pass the required tests and gain citizenship. However, sometimes an applicant may fail one or both tests. If an applicant fails any portion of the naturalization test during the initial interview, USCIS must provide a retest, usually scheduled within 60 to 90 days of the original examination.
Importantly, applicants are usually only retested on the portion they did not pass. For example, someone who passes the civics test but fails the English reading test would normally need to retake the failed English component rather than repeat the entire examination.
A failed first attempt therefore does not mean that the N-400 has been denied but it just won’t be granted yet. Applicants should use the time before the retest to study the official USCIS materials and address any difficulties that caused them to fail. However, failing a test again can result in denial of the naturalization application.
If USCIS denies an N-400, an applicant may have the right to request a hearing before USCIS by filing Form N-336 within the required timeframe. Naturalization cases can involve significant legal issues, so it is important that anyone who has failed a citizenship test consult with an experienced Texas naturalization attorney.
Contact Aspire Immigration for Help with the U.S. Citizenship Process
Failing the U.S. citizenship test does not necessarily mean the end of your naturalization journey, but understanding your rights and next steps is important. If you are preparing to apply for citizenship, have questions about your eligibility, or have failed your citizenship test, experienced legal guidance can help you move forward with confidence.
Luckily, Aspire Immigration, based in Dallas, is an immigration law firm dedicated to helping clients navigate the U.S. immigration process. With a commitment to excellence, Aspire Immigration helps individuals and families across Texas and around the world pursue their goals of building a new life in America. Contact Aspire Immigration today to learn how an experienced immigration attorney can help with your citizenship journey
