Civic responsibilities and rights of US citizens
The civic responsibilities and rights of US citizens are a two-way promise between you and your country — a set of constitutional rights that protect you and responsibilities that make American democracy work. This guide is written for N-400 naturalization candidates preparing for the USCIS civics test, and covers every duty and freedom you need to know on interview day.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Two responsibilities reserved for US citizens
The USCIS civics test asks you to name two responsibilities that are reserved for US citizens.
Serve on a jury
If you are called, you help decide the outcome of criminal and civil cases. Jury duty is one of the most direct ways citizens shape justice in their community.
Vote in federal elections
Only US citizens can vote in federal elections. Voting is technically a right, but it is also a responsibility citizens are expected to take part in.
Rights only US citizens have
Permanent residents share many rights with citizens, but the ones below are reserved for citizens.
Vote in federal elections
Register in your state, then vote for president, senators, and representatives who will speak for you.
Run for federal office
Only US citizens can run for federal office. Naturalized citizens can serve as members of Congress but not as president.
Apply for a US passport
A US passport lets you travel abroad with the protection of the US government and return home without a visa.
Bring family members to the US
Citizens can petition for close relatives — spouses, children, parents, and siblings — to become permanent residents.
Apply for federal jobs and benefits
Many federal jobs and benefits are reserved for US citizens. Naturalization opens them to you.
First Amendment freedoms that protect every citizen
The Bill of Rights protects everyone in the United States. The First Amendment lists five freedoms the government cannot take away.
- 1Freedom of speech
- 2Freedom of religion
- 3Freedom of assembly
- 4Freedom of the press
- 5Freedom to petition the government
The Oath of Allegiance — becoming a US citizen
The final step of naturalization is the Oath of Allegiance. By taking the oath, you promise to:
- Give up loyalty to any other country.
- Defend the Constitution and the laws of the United States.
- Obey the laws of the United States.
- Serve in the US military when required by law.
- Perform important work for the nation when required.
When you finish the oath, you are a US citizen with the same rights as anyone born in the country — except one: only citizens born in the US can serve as president.
Keep studying
- Back to the N400pro homepage — overview of the 128 USCIS civics questions and pricing.
- Create your free account — start with 16 questions free; full access available on the web.
- Contact the N400pro team — questions about naturalization prep or your account.
Ready to practice these on the real test?
N400pro walks you through all 128 official USCIS civics questions — including every question about rights and responsibilities — in English, Spanish, or German.
Not affiliated with USCIS. This guide is for study purposes only and is not legal or immigration advice.