The livret du citoyen: content, purpose and naturalisation preparation
The livret du citoyen (citizen's booklet) is the reference document tied to acquiring French nationality. It sets out citizens' rights and duties, the values and principles of the Republic, and key milestones of French history and institutions. It is also the study material for the civic exam. Here is what it contains and how to use it.
Prepare for your civic exam
The citizen's booklet is the basis of the civic exam required for naturalisation. Review the key notions and practice with our dedicated guide.
Go to the civic exam guideWhat is the livret du citoyen?
The citizen's booklet is an official brochure summarising what every French citizen is expected to know and share: the values, symbols, principles and workings of the French Republic.
It is closely tied to the naturalisation path, serving both as a reference for the commitments of nationality and as study material for the now-required civic exam.
What does the booklet contain?
It covers, in an accessible way, the main themes of French citizenship:
- Values and principles of the Republic: liberty, equality, fraternity, secularism.
- National symbols: the flag, La Marseillaise, the motto, Marianne.
- Citizens' rights and duties, notably voting and respecting the law.
- Institutions: the President, the Government, Parliament, the justice system.
- Key facts of French history and geography.
The booklet and the civic exam
Since the 2026 reform, a civic exam is required for French nationality and for certain residence cards. The booklet is the foundation of the knowledge tested.
Knowing its content well (values, institutions, symbols, history) is therefore essential. MCQ practice helps you get used to the questions.
Where to find and how to use it?
The booklet is issued by the state services and available as a PDF. To get the most out of it:
- Read it fully at least once for an overview.
- Identify key notions: values, institutions, symbols, important dates.
- Then practice with civic-exam-style questions to anchor the knowledge.
- Return to the booklet for any point you find difficult.
Frequently asked questions
What is the livret du citoyen for?
It presents the values, principles, symbols and institutions of the French Republic. It serves as a reference in the naturalisation path and as study material for the civic exam.
Is the booklet mandatory for naturalisation?
It is not a form to fill in, but its content is at the heart of the civic exam now required for naturalisation and certain residence cards. Knowing it well is essential.
Where can I download the livret du citoyen?
The booklet is issued by the state services and available as a PDF. It summarises the citizenship knowledge to master.
How do I revise the booklet effectively?
Read it fully, identify the key notions (values, institutions, symbols, history), then practice with civic-exam-style questions to check your knowledge.
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