Examen civique and naturalisation: who is affected?

Preparing a naturalisation application? Here is what service-public.gouv.fr says about the examen civique, and what the page does not specify.

Updated on 2026-10-28

Which procedures are covered?

The examen civique applies to procedures by decree: naturalisation and reinstatement (réintégration). Acquisitions of nationality by declaration (for example marriage to a French citizen, or ascendants and brothers and sisters of French citizens) are not subject to it.

In the naturalisation file, the official page lists a “certificate proving success in the examen civique”. Assimilation is checked through this pass and through an interview at the prefecture.

Format and pass mark

It is the same multiple-choice test as for residence permits: 40 questions in French (knowledge and situational questions), 32 correct answers to pass, on a digital device, in 45 minutes at most.

The official page does not specify a language level: it only says that the test is written in French. For the language knowledge required by your file, check the supporting documents listed by the public service.

Registering

Registration is done with a centre approved by the CCI de Paris Île-de-France or by France Éducation international. If you live abroad, the page says to ask at an institut français, an Alliance française or the consular authorities. See our guide Registering for the examen civique: approved centres, certificate, accommodations.

Accommodations and exemptions

A disability or health problem can lead to an accommodation of the test, on presentation of a medical certificate. If the person's health makes it impossible to assess their knowledge, an exemption from the certificate is possible, again on a medical certificate, and the administration may ask for a new medical assessment. The naturalisation page mentions no age-related exemption.

Frequently asked questions

Is the examen civique mandatory for naturalisation by marriage?

According to service-public.gouv.fr, the exam applies to procedures by decree (naturalisation and reinstatement). Acquisitions by declaration are not subject to it.

How many correct answers are needed for naturalisation?

32 out of 40, as for residence permits.

Do I have to take the exam at a specific centre?

At a centre approved by the CCI de Paris Île-de-France or by France Éducation international. Abroad, see an institut français, an Alliance française or the consulate.