The citizenship test starts with an invitation from IRCC. Read it carefully, because it sets the dates, the way you take the test and the documents you need. This guide explains what IRCC’s own pages say about the invitation, and what to check as soon as it arrives. Your invitation always overrides this page.
Online or in person
Most applicants take the test online. An online invitation gives you a test start date and an end date, and you have 30 days to take it. An in-person invitation gives you a time and a location, and IRCC says those details are in the invitation itself. Our online vs in-person test guide explains the differences.
Up to three attempts in the 30-day window
IRCC says you have up to three chances to pass within the test period. If you do not pass, you log in and try again. If you fail all three attempts, IRCC invites you to an oral hearing. Treat your first attempt as the one that counts, and prepare fully before you start.
What to bring
IRCC’s guidance lists these documents for the test. Check your invitation as well, because it can list different items:
- The notice to appear (the invitation)
- Two pieces of personal identification, with a photograph and signature
- Documents that support your citizenship application
- Your permanent resident card
- Any passports and travel documents you have
Keep the originals with you, not only copies. For a full list with dates and fees, see the citizenship documents checklist.
During the online test
IRCC’s online test page says you must not use any other devices and must not look at study materials during the test. Clear your desk before you start, and check the technical requirements in test day so nothing goes wrong on the day.
If the date does not work
Do not wait until the last day of the window. If something goes wrong, contact IRCC well before the end date. If you are taking the test outside Canada, see citizenship test from abroad.
Prepare before the invitation arrives
Most people study for weeks before the invitation. Start with the chapters, then take practice test 1 to find your weak areas. The timed mock exam gives you the 45-minute practice you will need.
ਇਹ ਗਾਈਡ ਇੱਕ ਸਾਦਾ ਭਾਸ਼ਾ ਦਾ ਸੰਖੇਪ ਹੈ, ਕਾਨੂੰਨੀ ਸਲਾਹ ਨਹੀਂ। ਨਿਯਮ ਅਤੇ ਫੀਸਾਂ ਬਦਲ ਸਕਦੀਆਂ ਹਨ - ਤੁਸੀਂ ਅਪਲਾਈ ਕਰਨ ਜਾਂ ਭੁਗਤਾਨ ਕਰਨ ਤੋਂ ਪਹਿਲਾਂ ਹਮੇਸ਼ਾ IRCC ਦੀ ਅਧਿਕਾਰਤ ਵੈੱਬਸਾਈਟ 'ਤੇ ਪੁਸ਼ਟੀ ਕਰੋ।