Centres accredited by France Éducation International / CCI Paris
Civic Exam
Book your French Civic Exam session in one of our KLF centres in Annecy, Bordeaux, Lyon, Montpellier and Toulouse.
Approved by France Éducation International and the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry
5 centres in France
Officially recognised exam
Online booking
Register at one of our examination centres with KLF
KLF (Keep Learning French) is a group of French schools in France.
In each destination, you take the French Civic Exam on site, on a computer, in a setting adapted to an official test. You receive clear instructions in advance — exam notice, times and required documents — and are welcomed by an available team.
The objective is simple: to offer you a smooth organisation so that you can take the exam with peace of mind!
*Places are limited, so we recommend booking several weeks in advance!
What is the French Civic Exam for?
💡 The French Civic Exam has become compulsory since January 2026 for many residence procedures in France. It is an essential step in the civic and citizenship integration process for foreigners in France.
This exam assesses your knowledge of the values of the Republic, how institutions work, rights and duties, as well as life in French society.
Who needs to take the compulsory exam?
Multi-year residence permit (CSP)
For newly arrived foreign nationals applying for a residence permit.
Resident card (CR)
For an application for a long-term resident card in France.
French nationality
For applicants applying for French nationality.
💡 The level of difficulty varies depending on the procedure. In many cases, the exam must be taken before submitting your application, as the pass certificate may be requested when preparing your file.
The rules, exemptions and required documents depend on your situation. Always refer to the official sources of the Ministry of the Interior.
Book your Civics exam session
*Accredited examination centre for France Education International and CCIP· Booking is simple and quick
Everything you need to know about the test
Structure
40 questions in total:
28 knowledge questions +
12 situation-based questions.
Topics
Principles of the Republic, institutions, history and geography, society, rights and duties.
Format
Multiple-choice test on computer in an official exam centre
Duration
Maximum 45 minutes to complete the test
Pass mark
Obtain at least 32 correct answers out of 40 (80%).
Results
Certificate available within 24 to 48 working hours.
Validity
Certificate valid with no time limit.
Valid for
Multi-year residence permit, resident card, naturalisation.
On exam day: how does it work?
A simple and supervised process to ensure your test runs smoothly.
1. Arrival
Arrive at the time indicated on your exam notice to help us welcome you efficiently.
2. Check-in
A staff member checks your identity document and your exam notice, and take a photograph of you before you enter the exam room.
3. Signature
You sign the attendance sheet to confirm your participation in the exam.
4. Exam
Take your seat at the indicated workstation and carefully follow the instructions given by the supervisor.
Our advice
- Take the time to read each question and all 4 answer options before replying.
- Do not hesitate to go back to check your answers.
- Do not rush: 45 minutes is more than enough time to answer all the questions.
Strict rules
- No dictionary or reference document allowed
- No notes or rough paper allowed
- Phones and electronic devices must be switched off and stored away
- No entry after the test has started
- Any exit during the test is final.
Choose your centre and book your session online
You can register for the French Civic Exam in several KLF centres in France.
Test your knowledge for free
Answer 12 questions to test your knowledge and get familiar with the type of questions you may encounter in the French Civic Exam.
Frequently asked questions about the French Civic Exam
Question not listed?
Our team is available to support you.
Is the exam compulsory?
Yes, it is required for a first multi-year residence permit (CSP), a first resident card (CR), or an application for French naturalisation.
How long is the certificate valid?
The certificate is valid for life, with no time limit.
What is the cost of the exam?
A French Civic Exam session costs €70, a price regulated by the Ministry of the Interior. You can retake it as many times as you wish.
Can I retake the exam if I fail?
Yes, as many times as necessary, with a minimum period of one day between two attempts.
When will I receive the results and certificate?
Usually within 24 to 48 working hours. You will receive an email with a download link — no paper version is issued.
Do I need to take the French Civic Exam to renew my residence permit?
No, the exam is only compulsory for first-time applications.
Where can I take the French Civic Exam?
KLF has 5 accredited French schools where you can take the French Civic Exam: Annecy, Bordeaux, Lyon, Montpellier and Toulouse.
