totaling at least 15 years, you do
not have to take the English test. You
do have to take the civics test in the
language of your choice.
26
Disability — If you have a physical or
Disability Accommodations — Under
developmental disability or a mental
section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of
impairment so severe that it prevents
1973, USCIS provides accommodations
you from acquiring or demonstrating the
or modifications for applicants with
required knowledge of English and civics,
physical or mental impairments that
you may be eligible for an exception to
make it difficult for them to complete the
these requirements. To request an exception, naturalization process. In order for USCIS
you must file a “Medical Certification for
to have enough advance notice to respond
Disability Exceptions” (Form N-648). If
to accommodation requests, applicants
you believe you qualify, contact a licensed
are encouraged to state their needs on the
medical or osteopathic doctor or licensed
place provided in the “Application for
clinical psychologist who will need to
Naturalization” (Form N-400).
complete and sign your Form N-648.
How can I prepare for the English and
To apply for a disability exception, your
civics tests? Many schools and community
disability:
organizations help people prepare for their
naturalization tests.
• Must be at least 1 year old (or be
expected to last 1 year); and
USCIS has a variety of study materials
available for the naturalization test at
• Must not have been caused by illegal
www.uscis.gov. These materials include
drug use.
the 100 civics (history and government)
questions and answers; reading and writing
If you qualify for this exception, an
vocabulary lists; Civics Flash Cards; and
interpreter, who is proficient in English
the study booklet, Learn About the United
and the language of your choice, must
States: Quick Civics Lessons. In addition,
accompany you to the interview.
you can find links to other Internet sites that
can help you get more information on U.S.
history and government and help you find
English classes in your area.
If you qualify for a medical exception from
the English and civics requirement, you
must still be able to take the Oath of
Allegiance to the United States. If you
cannot communicate an understanding of
the meaning of the oath because of a
physical or mental disability, USCIS may
excuse you from this requirement.
A Guide to Naturalization
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