Einbürgerungstest 2026 — the complete guide

It is a standardised multiple-choice test that shows you know the essentials of German society, democracy, history, and the rules of everyday life. It was introduced in 2008 and is the same across the country, set by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF). The content also appears as the "Leben in Deutschland" test used at the end of many integration courses — the questions are identical, only the purpose differs.

Most adults applying for German citizenship by naturalisation must pass the Einbürgerungstest, together with the other requirements (German at B1 level, a qualifying period of residence, securing your own livelihood, and a commitment to the free democratic order). Some applicants are exempt — for example, people who cannot take it for health reasons or because of age, and those who already hold a German school-leaving qualification. Your local naturalisation authority (Einbürgerungsbehörde) decides your individual case.

You answer 33 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes. Each question has four options and exactly one correct answer. Of the 33 questions, 30 are general (the same nationwide) and 3 are specific to your Bundesland. You pass with at least 17 correct answers. There is no penalty for a wrong answer, so you should always answer every question — never leave one blank.

The 300 general questions are grouped into three areas:

• Politics & democracy — the Grundgesetz, basic rights, elections, how the state is organised, the rule of law.
• History & responsibility — the Weimar Republic, National Socialism and its consequences, the division and reunification of Germany.
• People & society — religion and pluralism, education, work, and the rules of living together.

Plus the 10 state-specific questions for your Bundesland, of which 3 appear in your test.

Three of your 33 questions are about your own state: its capital, flag and coat of arms, state parliament, and government. Each state has its own free practice page with all 10 questions:

The official test fee is normally 25 euros. You sit it at an approved test centre — most commonly a Volkshochschule (VHS) or another licensed provider — where you register, show ID, and take the test on paper. You usually receive your certificate by post a few weeks later. Practising on GetGermanReady is completely free.

• Learn the whole pool. Your 33 questions are drawn from a fixed, public set, so working through all of them is the surest route to a pass.
• Understand, don't just memorise. Our explanations and translations tell you why an answer is right, which sticks better and helps with similar questions.
• Do your state's 10 questions. They're easy marks once you've seen them. Find yours here.
• Take timed mock tests. A full 33-question mock under time pressure shows you exactly where you stand before the real thing.

The Einbürgerungstest is one piece of naturalisation. You'll also typically need German at B1 (our B1 guide explains that exam), proof that you can support yourself, and a qualifying period of lawful residence. Have more questions? See our FAQ.