Exceptions and accommodations

If you are:

• 50 years or older when you file your citizenship application and have lived in the U.S. as a legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least 20 years; OR
• 55 years or older when you file your citizenship application and have lived in the U.S. as a legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least 15 years

You may qualify for the Age and Residency exceptions and may not have to take the English test. However, you will still need to take the civics test in your own language using an interpreter. You will need to bring an interpreter with you. Your interpreter must be over 18. You can call U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for more information at 1-800-375-5283, (TDD) 1-800-767-1833.

You may be able to take the civics test in your language.

If you are over 65 years old and have been a legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least 20 years, you may be able to take the civics test in your language. You will also get an easier version of the test – you will need to study 20 questions, not all 100 questions.

Please see the Civics Questions for the 65/20 Exemption.

If you are unable to learn English and civics because you have a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment, you may be eligible for Medical Disability exceptions to the English and civics test requirements.

To request the medical disability exception, you must do the following:

• Request the exception on the citizenship application form
• Submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions

The form must:

• be completed by a licensed medical or osteopathic doctor, or licensed clinical psychologist; and
• show that you have a disability or impairment that affects your core functioning so that you are not able to take the test

This is a complex process and you will need help from a community organization that has experience in submitting Form N-648.

You can request

• additional time and breaks during your test
• a Sign Language interpreter if you are deaf or hard of hearing
• that relatives are present during your interview
• interview and test in your home, nursing home or other location

You can also request accommodations for the oath ceremony including

• simpler language
• expedited scheduling
• Sign language interpreter

More details on accommodations and how to request them can be found on the USCIS website.