US Citizenship Test in Spanish | Spanish Test Rules & Waivers

Published: June 1, 2026 • Author: Amira Khalil

Can You Take the U.S. Citizenship Test in Spanish?

One of the biggest hurdles for many applicants is the English language requirement. However, if you meet certain age and residency requirements, or have a qualifying medical condition, you may be eligible to take the US citizenship test in Spanish.

The Age and Residency Exemptions

USCIS provides specific language exemptions based on your age and how long you have been a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder). If you qualify, you do not have to take the English reading or writing tests, and you can bring an interpreter to your interview.

The 50/20 Rule

If you are 50 years of age or older and have lived in the United States as a Green Card holder for at least 20 years when you file your application for citizenship in Spanish (Form N-400), you can take the civics test in your native language.

The 55/15 Rule

If you are 55 years of age or older and have lived in the U.S. as a Green Card holder for at least 15 years, you also qualify to take the naturalization test in Spanish.

The 65/20 Rule (Special 20-Question Test)

If you are 65 years of age or older and have held your Green Card for at least 20 years, you receive special consideration. Not only can you take the test in Spanish, but you only have to study a simplified list of 20 civics questions, instead of the full 100.

The Citizenship Exam Waiver (Medical Exception N-648)

What if you do not meet the age requirements? If you have a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment that prevents you from learning English or civics, you may qualify for a citizenship exam waiver.

To apply, a licensed medical professional must complete Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions. If approved, the USCIS officer may waive the English requirement, the civics requirement, or both.

Application for Citizenship in Spanish

Even if you qualify to take the test in Spanish, your Form N-400 must still be submitted in English. However, at the interview, the officer will allow your interpreter to translate the N-400 questions into Spanish so you can answer accurately.

Practica para el Examen de Ciudadanía en Español

CivicFlare offers full bilingual support. You can study all 100 questions, use flashcards, and take practice quizzes completely in Spanish.

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Disclaimer: CivicFlare is an independent platform and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or any government agency.