Leben in Deutschland Test 2026: What It Is, How to Register, and What to Expect

What Is the Leben in Deutschland Test?

The Leben in Deutschland Test is the official German citizenship knowledge test, introduced on 1 April 2013 and administered by BAMF — the Bundesamt für Migration und Flüchtlinge (Federal Office for Migration and Refugees). It is also called the Einbürgerungstest, and both names refer to exactly the same exam.

The test consists of 33 questions drawn randomly from an official pool of 310 questions published by BAMF. You have 60 minutes to complete the exam. Questions are multiple-choice with four answer options — select the single best answer. There is no penalty for incorrect answers. The exam is conducted entirely in German, though you are free to prepare in any language you choose.

The test covers three broad topic areas: politics and democracy in Germany, history and responsibility, and people and society. These areas are represented in the 300 national questions. An additional 10 questions specific to your German state (Bundesland) are included in the full pool.

Where to Register: The VHS

Registration takes place exclusively through a VHS — Volkshochschule — a publicly funded adult-education center found in almost every German city and town. Each VHS sets its own exam dates, typically offered several times a year. Visit the official BAMF website or contact your local Ausländerbehörde (immigration authority) to find your nearest VHS and available dates.

The registration fee is 25 € per attempt, paid each time you sit the exam. There is no limit on retakes — if you do not pass, simply register again and try when you feel ready. Many candidates practice with an app like Einbürger before booking their official date to gauge their readiness first.

Register in advance, as popular VHS locations fill up quickly, especially in larger cities. Some branches allow online registration; others require a visit or phone call. Allow several weeks between registration and your exam date to prepare properly.

What to Expect on Test Day

Bring a valid photo ID — your passport or German residence permit. Arrive early, as late arrivals may not be admitted. You will receive a printed test booklet and an answer sheet. Mark your answers by selecting A, B, C, or D for each of the 33 multiple-choice questions.

You have 60 minutes to complete all 33 questions. Most candidates finish comfortably within the time limit. If you are unsure of an answer, mark your best guess and move on — there is no deduction for wrong answers. You may review your answers before handing in the sheet. You cannot take the question booklet home.

Knowing the pass thresholds before exam day helps you set a realistic target. Scoring 17 or more out of 33 means you pass the Einbürgerungstest for citizenship. Scoring 15 or 16 earns the Orientierungskurs certificate. Results are typically announced the same day or sent by post within a few days.

Results, Certificates, and Next Steps

After the test, you receive one of two certificates based on your score. Score 17 or more out of 33 and you pass the Einbürgerungstest — receiving the official certificate required for your naturalization application. Score 15 or 16 and you receive the Orientierungskurs certificate instead. Below 15, no certificate is issued and you must retake the exam.

The Einbürgerungstest certificate has no expiry date. Submit it with your naturalization application once you are ready. If you do not pass, register at your VHS again and prepare further. Running Einbürger's Exam Mode to simulate realistic test conditions before your next attempt is one of the most effective ways to build confidence and improve your score.