The CIAI Act (no. 2024-42 of 26 January 2024), in force since 1 January 2026, makes the civic exam a mandatory condition for three application types: first multi-year residence permit (CSP), first resident card (10 years), and naturalisation by decree or marriage.
Note: The official platform test-civique.fr was unavailable from 4 to 17 June 2026 for maintenance. Check formation-civique.interieur.gouv.fr for available exam slots.
Exam format
- 40 multiple-choice questions — one correct answer out of 4
- Pass mark: 80% minimum (32 correct answers out of 40)
- Correct answer = 1 point · Wrong or no answer = 0
- Duration: approximately 45 minutes at an approved testing centre
5 topics assessed
- French history — key events and figures
- Republican institutions and symbols (Marianne, motto, flag, anthem)
- Citizens' rights and duties — Charter of Rights and Duties
- Political and administrative organisation — Parliament, local government
- Republican values — secularism, equality, freedom
French language requirements alongside the exam
| Permit type | Required French level |
|---|---|
| Multi-year residence permit (CSP) | A2 minimum |
| Resident card (10 years) | B1 minimum |
| Naturalisation by decree | B2 minimum |
| Naturalisation by marriage | B2 minimum |
Who is exempt?
- Persons aged over 65
- Persons with a disability or chronic health condition (medical certificate required)
- Recognised refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection
- Renewals — only first applications are concerned
How to prepare
The Ministry of the Interior runs an official preparation website: formation-civique.interieur.gouv.fr. The official question list for naturalisation is published there. FrenchDesk offers a civic exam simulator to practise in real conditions with explanations in 6 languages.
What if you fail?
There is no minimum waiting period between attempts. A pass certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.