Are New Naturalization Testing Rules on the Horizon?

According to media reports, the Trump Administration has turned its sights once again on the civics exam. This exam tests an applicant’s knowledge of U.S. history and government and is a required step before a lawful permanent resident can become a citizen. However, confusion exists around what changes, if any, the Trump Administration will propose next. Those who are eager to become citizens should contact Empowerment Legal for help understanding their obligations. We can guide you through the naturalization process and address any concerns that arise.

How The Civics Test Has Changed

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is considering multiple changes, including allowing third parties to administer the test. These changes could alter how and when applicants sit for the exam. Currently, USCIS administers the test, but using third-party vendors might be an option going forward.

The administration last made changes to the civics test in 2025: increasing the number of questions from 10 to 20 and requiring that applicants get 12 of the 20 questions correct. The test also increased the bank of potential questions that an applicant might be asked.

Currently, the test has a pass rate approaching 90%. When adding in those who take a retest, the pass rate rises to nearly 95%. Passing the test is required to become a U.S. citizen.

Unfortunately, the administration has not yet released details about any proposed changes to the test in 2026. We don’t know if the Trump Administration wants to tweak the content, or if they are only interested in contracting with vendors.

Any changes to the test will take place against an aggressive push to denaturalize current citizens and make it harder to obtain citizenship. Denaturalization cases jumped significantly in May and June of this year, with well over 10 cases being filed in each month. By contrast only a couple denaturalization cases were pursued in 2025.

The increase in denaturalization is not surprising. The DOJ published a report stating that stripping people of their citizenship was a “top 5” priority for the department.

What Should You Do?

If you are thinking of becoming a U.S. citizen, you might consider applying today, before any changes to the civics test are adopted. Our firm can analyze whether you meet the requirements for citizenship. Generally, an applicant must have lived in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident for at least five years before applying.

Our firm can also review some of the most common barriers to citizenship, including criminal convictions or prior violations of immigration law.

If the test is changing, then you need to decide whether to pursue naturalization now or wait. The changes could make it harder to pass, which is always a consideration.

Develop a Strategy for Obtaining Citizenship

The U.S. government continues to grant citizenship to applicants, despite the hostility of the current administration. Anyone seeking naturalization should work with an experienced lawyer. Attorney Sidonie Parr has practiced immigration law for years. She stays on top of recent changes to immigration law, including the civics test, and uses her knowledge to benefit her clients. Call our office to speak with a Jacksonville citizenship and naturalization lawyer.

Sources:

msn.com/en-us/news/other/trump-administration-eyes-new-naturalization-testing-rules/ar-AA29mFwb?ocid=BingNewsVerp

forbes.com/sites/stuartanderson/2026/07/29/trump-immigration-policies-make-it-harder-to-get-and-keep-citizenship