Civic Exam 2026: everything you need to know about the mandatory test
Civic Exam Questions
The civic exam has 40 multiple choice questions covering Republic values, French history, institutions and citizen rights. Here are examples to practice.
Steps to Follow
- What is the motto of the French Republic? → Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
- When is the national holiday celebrated? → July 14, commemorating the storming of the Bastille (1789)
- Who elects the President? → French citizens, by direct universal suffrage
- How long is the presidential term? → 5 years (quinquennat)
- What does laïcité mean? → Separation of state and religion, state neutrality
- What text establishes fundamental rights in France? → Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, 1789
- At what age does voting become a right? → 18 years old
- What is the national anthem? → La Marseillaise
- What are the three separated powers? → Executive, legislative, judicial
- When did school become compulsory and free? → Jules Ferry laws of 1881-1882
Practical Tips
- These questions represent the typical exam difficulty level.
- Try our interactive mini-quiz on the civic exam page to test your knowledge.
- Real exam questions are rephrased each session — understand concepts, don't memorize wordings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are questions the same each session?
No, questions are drawn from a bank and change each session. But themes remain the same.
Are there trick questions?
No, questions test basic knowledge and are clearly worded.
How many correct answers to pass?
32 out of 40 (80%). This threshold requires good preparation.
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