Civic Exam 2026: Everything You Need to Know
Since January 1, 2026, you must pass the civic exam (examen civique) to get a first multi-year residence card or a first 10-year resident card. Naturalization applicants take their own version too. This guide covers the exam format, what to study, sample questions and the official question list with answers.
What Is the Civic Exam?
The civic exam (examen civique) is a multiple-choice test that checks your knowledge of the principles and values of the French Republic, its institutions and life in France. It was created by the immigration law of January 26, 2024 and applies since January 1, 2026. It has 28 knowledge questions and 12 real-life scenarios.
40
Questions
45 min
Maximum duration
32/40
Minimum score
Paid
Price set by the center
Who Must Pass the Civic Exam?
Every adult foreign national who signed the republican integration contract (CIR) and applies for a first multi-year residence card or a first resident card. Beneficiaries of international protection and some nationals covered by bilateral agreements are exempt.
Multi-Year Residence Card
Required for a first multi-year residence card, usually after a first one-year permit. Renewing a multi-year card you already hold does not require it.
10-Year Resident Card
Required for a first resident card, on top of the French language level. Renewing a resident card does not require it.
French Naturalization
Naturalization applicants take the naturalization version of the civic exam, on top of the French language test and the assimilation interview.
Test Your Knowledge: Sample Quiz
Try these 5 sample questions modeled after the real civic exam. Select an answer for each question, then check your results.
1. What is the motto of the French Republic?
2. What does the principle of laicite (secularism) guarantee in France?
3. How many regions does metropolitan France have since the 2015 reform?
4. At what age can French citizens vote?
5. Which text adopted in 1789 proclaims that 'Men are born and remain free and equal in rights'?
Want more practice? Try our full simulator with 120+ questions.
Access the full simulatorHow to Prepare for the Civic Exam
- 1
Read the Citizen's Handbook
The Ministry of the Interior publishes the Livret du citoyen, which covers all topics on the exam. It is available for free as a PDF on the official immigration website.
- 2
Study the French Constitution
Understand the key articles, especially those on fundamental rights, the role of the President, the Parliament, and the judiciary. Focus on the preamble and Articles 1 through 4.
- 3
Learn the Republic's Values and Symbols
Memorize the motto (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity), the national anthem (La Marseillaise), the flag (blue, white, red), Marianne, and the meaning of July 14.
- 4
Understand Laicite in Practice
Study the 1905 separation of church and state, the neutrality of public services, freedom of conscience, and what laicite means in schools and workplaces.
- 5
Review French Administrative Geography
Know the 13 metropolitan regions, the difference between departments and communes, the role of the mayor, prefects, and overseas territories (DOM-TOM).
- 6
Practice with Sample Questions
Use the quiz on this page and other official preparation materials. Time yourself to simulate the 45-minute exam conditions.
- 7
Learn Key Historical Dates
The Revolution of 1789, the abolition of slavery in 1848, universal male suffrage in 1848, women's suffrage in 1944, the Treaty of Rome in 1957, and the 1958 Fifth Republic.
- 8
Understand Citizens' Rights and Duties
Know the rights (voting, education, healthcare, freedom of expression) and the duties (paying taxes, respecting the law, participating in national defense if called upon, sending children to school).
Related Guides
Naturalization Guide
French citizenship process
Official questions and answers
Every exam question, with the answers
Residence Permit Guide
Titre de sejour process
Civic exam questions
The question bank, theme by theme
Where to sit the civic exam
Approved centres and how to book
Preparing for the civic exam
What to revise, and in what order
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Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone applying for a first multi-year residence card or a first resident card since January 1, 2026, as well as naturalization applicants. Renewing a multi-year card or a resident card you already hold does not require it.
40 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes maximum, on a tablet or computer: 28 knowledge questions and 12 real-life scenarios. Each question has 4 options and only one is correct. You need at least 32 correct answers (80%).
The exam is paid and the price depends on the approved center where you take it (CCI Paris Île-de-France or France Éducation International). Preparing for it can be done for free with the official resources.
You can retake it whenever you want, as many times as needed. You just need the pass certificate when you file your permit application.
Yes, the exam is only available in French, so you need to understand the written questions.
In a center approved by CCI Paris Île-de-France or France Éducation International, anywhere in France. You register yourself with the center of your choice.
Start by reading the Livret du citoyen published by the Ministry of the Interior. Focus on the values of the Republic (liberty, equality, fraternity, secularism), French institutions, citizens' rights and duties, and key historical dates. Use sample quizzes to practice under timed conditions.
No, they are separate requirements. The French language test (TCF, DELF) evaluates your French proficiency, while the civic exam tests your knowledge of French values, institutions, and history. Both may be required depending on your application type.
No, the exam is only available in French. This is intentional as the civic exam also serves as an indirect assessment of your French comprehension. No translations or interpreters are provided.
No, it does not expire. A resident card certificate also counts for a multi-year residence card application.
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