Updated 2026-09-09
Two conditions, both required: you are 65 years old or older on the day you file, and you have been a lawful permanent resident for 20 years or more (the years do not have to be continuous, but they must add up to 20).
Fewer questions to study. Instead of the whole bank, you study only the 20 questions USCIS marks with an asterisk. They are drawn from your bank — 2008 or 2025, depending on your filing date.
A shorter test. The officer asks up to 10 of those 20 and stops when you have 6 right.
Your own language. You may take the civics test in the language you choose, with an interpreter you bring. The English reading and writing tests are waived entirely under the separate 50/20 and 55/15 rules if you also meet those.
You still have the interview. The officer still reviews your N-400 with you and still asks the civics questions — just fewer of them, from a shorter list. Bring the same documents as anyone else. Interview checklist.
They are marked with a ★ throughout this site: on the question pages, in the study guide, and in flashcards. Choose the 65/20 option when you create your account and the practice test becomes the 10-question version automatically. See the full list — the starred ones are yours.
Being 65 with 19 years as a resident does not qualify. Nor does 20 years of living in the U.S. on other statuses — the 20 years count from the date you became a permanent resident. If you are close, check the date on your green card before assuming.
Not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency. This is study guidance, not legal advice about your immigration case.