Who must take the citizenship test? Age rules explained

The rule in three lines

• Aged 18 to 54 on the day you sign your application: you must take the citizenship test.
• Aged 55 or older: you do not need to take the test or prove your language skills.
• Under 18: you do not need to take the test or prove your language skills.

Details worth knowing

• The age that counts is your age on the day you sign the application, not on the day of the test.
• Adults between 18 and 54 can ask for a waiver in some situations. Adults 55 and over and minors do not need one.
• The oath is separate: adults must take the oath of citizenship at the ceremony if the application is approved. Minors aged 14 to 17 also take it; minors under 14 do not.
• Even if you are exempt, reading Discover Canada is a good way to know what citizenship means.

If you must take the test

You will be invited after you submit your application. The test has 20 questions and you need 15 to pass. Start practising early: short daily sessions work better than a last-minute rush.

Keep reading

• Test format
• After the test
• Free practice test