French civic exam 2026: official questions, answers and PDF (multi-year residence card)

Answer: À la fête nationale françaiseThe French national holiday

Since the law of 1880, 14 July has been the national holiday. It recalls the storming of the Bastille (1789) and the Festival of the Federation (1790).

Source: Loi du 6 juillet 1880 ayant pour objet l’établissement d’une fête nationale annuelleQuestion page →

Answer: Le drapeau bleu, blanc, rougeThe blue, white and red flag

Article 2 of the Constitution states that the national emblem is the tricolour flag, blue, white and red.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: la loi est la même pour tous, sans distinction d’origine ou de sexethe law is the same for everyone, regardless of origin or sex

The Republic ensures the equality of all citizens before the law, without distinction of origin, race or religion.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: la devise de la République françaisethe motto of the French Republic

Article 2 of the Constitution states that the motto of the Republic is “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity”.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: Non, c’est une infraction punie par la loiNo, it is an offence punishable by law

Publicly insulting someone because of their sex, disability or origin is an offence. The penalty can be up to one year in prison.

Source: Loi du 29 juillet 1881 sur la liberté de la presse, article 33Question page →

Answer: Non, les métiers sont ouverts aux femmes comme aux hommesNo, jobs are open to women and men alike

The law forbids an employer from choosing an employee on the basis of sex. Women and men have access to the same jobs.

Source: Code du travail, article L1142-1Question page →

Answer: 19581958

The Constitution of the Fifth Republic was adopted by referendum and promulgated on 4 October 1958.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958Question page →

Answer: une république démocratiquea democratic republic

According to Article 1 of the Constitution, France is a democratic Republic: power comes from the people, who vote.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: Le drapeau tricoloreThe tricolour flag

The blue, white and red flag is the official emblem of the Republic. The fleur-de-lis was a symbol of the kings of France.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: Sur le fronton des mairies et des écoles publiquesOn the front of town halls and state schools

The motto “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity” is engraved on many public buildings, such as town halls and schools.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l’Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Le drapeau tricolore, la Marseillaise et la deviseThe tricolour flag, La Marseillaise and the motto

The Constitution names the blue, white and red flag, the anthem “La Marseillaise” and the motto “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity”.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: Tous les citoyens ont les mêmes droits et les mêmes devoirsAll citizens have the same rights and the same duties

“Men are born and remain free and equal in rights.” The law is the same for everyone.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l’homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: Pouvoir faire tout ce qui ne nuit pas aux autresBeing able to do anything that does not harm others

According to the 1789 Declaration, liberty consists in being able to do anything that does not harm others. Its limits are set by law.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l’homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 4Question page →

Answer: La solidarité et l’entraide entre les personnesSolidarity and mutual help between people

Fraternity means solidarity between people. The Constitutional Council made it a principle: one may help others for humanitarian purposes.

Source: Conseil constitutionnel, décision n° 2018-717/718 QPC du 6 juillet 2018Question page →

Answer: Le coqThe rooster

The Gallic rooster is a traditional symbol of France. It is often seen on the shirts of sports teams.

Source: elysee.fr – Les symboles de la RépubliqueQuestion page →

Answer: Réunir des personnes pour agir ensemble pour une causeBringing people together to act jointly for a cause

An association brings people together around a shared, non-profit project: sport, culture, solidarity, etc.

Source: Loi du 1er juillet 1901 relative au contrat d’association, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: La MarseillaiseLa Marseillaise

Article 2 of the Constitution says the national anthem is “La Marseillaise”, written by Rouget de Lisle in 1792.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: Le drapeauThe flag

The French flag has three colours: blue, white and red. That is why it is called “tricolour”.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: Le 14 juillet14 July

The law of 1880 made 14 July the national holiday of France.

Source: Loi du 6 juillet 1880 ayant pour objet l’établissement d’une fête nationale annuelleQuestion page →

Answer: Liberté, Égalité, FraternitéLiberty, Equality, Fraternity

The motto of the Republic, written in the Constitution, is “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity”.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: Le françaisFrench

Article 2 of the Constitution says: “The language of the Republic is French.”

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: C’est la langue de la République, inscrite dans la ConstitutionIt is the language of the Republic, written into the Constitution

The Constitution states that French is the language of the Republic. It is used in administration, the courts and schools.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: La liberté d’expressionFreedom of expression

Freedom of expression allows everyone to say, write and publish their opinions, within the law.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l’homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 11Question page →

Answer: s’exerce dans les limites fixées par la loiis exercised within the limits set by law

Everyone may speak and write freely, but must answer for abuses defined by law, such as insults or incitement to hatred.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l’homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 11Question page →

Answer: Bleu, blanc, rougeBlue, white, red

The tricolour flag is blue, white and red, as Article 2 of the Constitution states.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: L’hymne national de la FranceThe national anthem of France

La Marseillaise is the national anthem. It was written in 1792 by Rouget de Lisle and is named in Article 2 of the Constitution.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 2Question page →

Answer: Un défilé militaireA military parade

Every 14 July, a large military parade takes place on the Champs-Élysées, in front of the President of the Republic.

Source: elysee.fr – Le défilé du 14 juilletQuestion page →

Answer: Une figure de femme qui représente la RépubliqueA female figure who represents the Republic

Marianne is a female figure who embodies the Republic. Her bust is found in town halls and she appears on stamps.

Source: elysee.fr – Les symboles de la RépubliqueQuestion page →

Answer: Oui, c’est une liberté garantieYes, it is a guaranteed freedom

Freedom of thought and religion includes the freedom to change one’s religion or belief. No one can forbid it.

Source: Convention européenne des droits de l’homme, article 9Question page →

Answer: laïquesecular (laïque)

Article 1 says: “France is an indivisible, secular, democratic and social Republic.”

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: 19051905

The law separating the Churches and the State was passed in 1905 (law of 9 December 1905).

Source: Loi du 9 décembre 1905 concernant la séparation des Églises et de l’ÉtatQuestion page →

Answer: Croire ou ne pas croire, librementBelieving or not believing, freely

Secularism guarantees freedom of conscience: everyone may have a religion, change it or have none.

Source: Loi du 9 décembre 1905, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: La liberté de conscienceFreedom of conscience

Under the 1905 law, the Republic ensures freedom of conscience and guarantees the free exercise of worship.

Source: Loi du 9 décembre 1905, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: Pour protéger la liberté de conscience des élèvesTo protect pupils’ freedom of conscience

State schools are neutral. Pupils are protected from any religious or political pressure and can form their own opinions.

Source: Charte de la laïcité à l’École (2013)Question page →

Answer: La séparation de l’État et des religionsThe separation of the State and religions

Secularism separates the State and religions. The State is neutral and everyone is free to believe or not to believe.

Source: Loi du 9 décembre 1905, articles 1er et 2Question page →

Answer: Non, l’instruction est obligatoire de 3 à 16 ansNo, education is compulsory from age 3 to 16

In France, education is compulsory for all children aged 3 to 16. Religion does not allow anyone to avoid it.

Source: Code de l’éducation, article L131-1Question page →

Answer: Oui, la liberté de conscience protège aussi ceux qui ne croient pasYes, freedom of conscience also protects those who do not believe

Freedom of conscience allows one to believe or not to believe. No one has to declare their religion or lack of religion.

Source: Loi du 9 décembre 1905, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: Le président de la RépubliqueThe President of the Republic

Under Article 8 of the Constitution, the President of the Republic appoints the Prime Minister.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 8Question page →

Answer: de l’Assemblée nationale et du Sénatthe National Assembly (Assemblée nationale) and the Senate

Parliament has two chambers: the National Assembly and the Senate. It passes laws and oversees the Government.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 24Question page →

Answer: de faire appliquer les lois et de diriger le paysto enforce laws and run the country

Executive power applies the laws and runs the country’s policy. It is exercised by the President and the Government.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, articles 5, 20 et 21Question page →

Answer: une démocratiea democracy

In a democracy, the people choose their representatives by voting. In France, sovereignty belongs to the people.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 3Question page →

Answer: Non, la loi s’impose à tousNo, the law applies to everyone

The law is the same for everyone and everyone must respect it. One may criticise it or seek to change it, but not disobey it.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l’homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 6Question page →

Answer: Tout le monde, y compris les dirigeantsEveryone, including those in power

The law must be the same for all. French nationals, foreigners, elected officials or ministers: everyone must respect it.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l’homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 6Question page →

Answer: Rendre la justice et protéger les libertés individuellesAdministering justice and protecting individual liberties

The judicial authority rules on disputes and offences by applying the law. It is the guardian of individual liberty.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 66Question page →

Answer: judiciairejudicial

A judge belongs to the judicial authority: they settle disputes and punish offences independently.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, articles 64 à 66Question page →

Answer: les magistrats (juges et procureurs)magistrates (judges and prosecutors)

Judicial authority is exercised by magistrates: judges, who rule, and prosecutors, who defend the interests of society.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, articles 64 et 65Question page →

Answer: Il peut être poursuivi et condamné par la justiceThey can be prosecuted and convicted by the courts

A minister must respect the law like everyone else. For acts carried out in office, they are tried by the Court of Justice of the Republic.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 68-1Question page →

Answer: Les députésMembers of the National Assembly (députés)

Legislative elections are used to elect the members of the National Assembly, by direct universal suffrage.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 24Question page →

Answer: 577577

The National Assembly has 577 members, elected for five years. The Senate has 348 senators.

Source: Code électoral, article LO119Question page →

Answer: Pour 6 ans, la moitié du Sénat étant renouvelée tous les 3 ansFor 6 years, with half of the Senate renewed every 3 years

Senators are elected for six years. Half of the Senate is renewed every three years, by indirect suffrage.

Source: Code électoral, articles LO275 et LO276Question page →

Answer: Les conseillers municipaux, qui élisent ensuite le maireMunicipal councillors, who then elect the mayor

In municipal elections, voters elect the municipal councillors. The council then elects the mayor from among its members.

Source: Code général des collectivités territoriales, article L2122-4Question page →

Answer: Le président de la RépubliqueThe President of the Republic

The President of the Republic is elected directly by citizens, by direct universal suffrage.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 6Question page →

Answer: 18 ans18

French women and men aged 18 or over who enjoy their civil and political rights may vote.

Source: Code électoral, article L2Question page →

Answer: 5 ans5 years

Since the 2000 reform, the President is elected for five years. They cannot serve more than two consecutive terms.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 6Question page →

Answer: 5 ans5 years

Members of the National Assembly are elected for five years, unless the President dissolves the Assembly before the end of the term.

Source: Code électoral, article LO121Question page →

Answer: 6 ans6 years

Senators are elected for six years. Half of the Senate is renewed every three years.

Source: Code électoral, article LO275Question page →

Answer: Le président de la République et le GouvernementThe President of the Republic and the Government

Executive power is shared between the President of the Republic and the Government, led by the Prime Minister.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, articles 5, 20 et 21Question page →

Answer: Être inscrit sur les listes électoralesBeing registered on the electoral rolls

To vote, one must have the required age and nationality, enjoy one’s civic rights and be registered on the electoral rolls.

Source: Code électoral, articles L2 et L9Question page →

Answer: Les Français majeurs inscrits sur les listes électoralesFrench adults registered on the electoral rolls

Registered French adults may vote. Citizens of the European Union may also vote in municipal and European elections.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, articles 3 et 88-3 ; Code électoral, article L2Question page →

Answer: Tous les citoyens majeurs peuvent voter, sans condition de richesse ni de sexeAll adult citizens can vote, regardless of wealth or sex

Suffrage is universal: all adult French citizens, men and women, who enjoy their civil and political rights may vote.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 3Question page →

Answer: Ils se créent et agissent librement, dans le respect de la démocratieThey are formed and act freely, while respecting democracy

According to the Constitution, political parties are formed and act freely. They must respect national sovereignty and democracy.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 4Question page →

Answer: Voter les lois et contrôler l'action du GouvernementPassing laws and overseeing the Government’s action

Deputies sit in the National Assembly. Together with senators, they vote on laws and oversee the Government's action.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 24Question page →

Answer: Le pouvoir législatif, le pouvoir exécutif et le pouvoir judiciaireLegislative power, executive power and judicial power

The three powers are: legislative (making laws), executive (applying them) and judicial (judging).

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 16Question page →

Answer: Le Parlement (Assemblée nationale et Sénat)Parliament (National Assembly and Senate)

Legislative power belongs to Parliament, made up of the National Assembly and the Senate. Parliament votes on laws.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 24Question page →

Answer: La justice (un tribunal)The justice system (a court)

It is not up to the victim to punish: theft is punished by the justice system. Generally, a court tries the offender and decides the penalty. For a theft of €300 or less, a fixed fine can also be imposed without a trial.

Source: Code pénal, article 311-3Question page →

Answer: Les électeurs, au suffrage universel directVoters, by direct universal suffrage

Deputies are elected directly by voters, by direct universal suffrage, for five years.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 24Question page →

Answer: Le ParlementParliament

Parliament, that is the National Assembly and the Senate, votes on laws.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 24Question page →

Answer: Le président de la RépubliqueThe President of the Republic

The Élysée Palace in Paris is the official residence and workplace of the President of the Republic.

Source: elysee.fr – Le palais de l'ÉlyséeQuestion page →

Answer: 101101

France has 101 departments: 96 in mainland France and 5 overseas.

Source: INSEE – Code officiel géographiqueQuestion page →

Answer: Le préfetThe prefect (préfet)

The prefect represents the State and the Government in the department. He or she is appointed by the President of the Republic.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 72Question page →

Answer: Le maire, avec le conseil municipalThe mayor, with the municipal council

The municipality is run by the mayor and the municipal council. Voters elect the council, which then elects the mayor from among its members.

Source: Code général des collectivités territorialesQuestion page →

Answer: Non, ses pouvoirs sont limités par la ConstitutionNo, their powers are limited by the Constitution

No. In France, powers are separated. The President must respect the Constitution, Parliament votes on laws and judges are independent.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958Question page →

Answer: Le représentant de l'État dans le départementThe State’s representative in the department

The prefect is the State's representative in the department and region. He or she is not elected but appointed by the President of the Republic.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 72Question page →

Answer: Voter la loi et contrôler l'action du GouvernementPassing laws and overseeing the Government’s action

Parliament votes on laws, oversees the Government's action and evaluates public policies.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 24Question page →

Answer: Une république démocratiqueA democratic republic

France is an indivisible, secular, democratic and social Republic. Power belongs to the people.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: 2727

On 1 January 2025, the European Union had 27 member states, since the United Kingdom left in 2020.

Source: europa.eu – Pays de l'Union européenneQuestion page →

Answer: La SuisseSwitzerland

Switzerland has never been a member of the European Union. Spain, Ireland and Poland are members.

Source: europa.eu – Pays de l'Union européenneQuestion page →

Answer: Être citoyen d'un pays de l'Union européenneBeing a citizen of a European Union country

To vote in European elections, you must be a citizen of an EU member state, an adult and registered on the electoral rolls.

Source: Traité sur le fonctionnement de l'Union européenne, article 22Question page →

Answer: Tous les 5 ansEvery 5 years

Members of the European Parliament are elected for five years, so European elections take place every five years, for example in 2019 and 2024.

Source: Traité sur l'Union européenne, article 14Question page →

Answer: L'ItalieItaly

The six founding countries are France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

Source: Traité de Rome du 25 mars 1957Question page →

Answer: L'euroThe euro

France's currency is the euro. It replaced the franc; coins and notes have been in circulation since 2002.

Source: Traité sur l'Union européenne, article 3Question page →

Answer: Les citoyens européens, au suffrage universel directEuropean citizens, by direct universal suffrage

Since 1979, Members of the European Parliament have been elected directly by the citizens of the European Union.

Source: Traité sur l'Union européenne, article 14Question page →

Answer: Le 9 mai9 May

Europe Day is 9 May. It commemorates Robert Schuman's declaration of 9 May 1950.

Source: europa.eu – Journée de l'EuropeQuestion page →

Answer: La Constitution de la Ve RépubliqueThe Constitution of the Fifth Republic

The current Constitution dates from 4 October 1958. It founded the Fifth Republic.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958Question page →

Answer: La Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyenThe Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen

The 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen sets out everyone's rights and duties. It has constitutional value.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789Question page →

Answer: Ils s'appliquent à toutes les personnes qui vivent en FranceThey apply to everyone who lives in France

Individual rights, such as freedom or equality before the law, protect everyone in France, whatever their nationality.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: 17891789

The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen was adopted on 26 August 1789, during the French Revolution.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789Question page →

Answer: La liberté d'expressionFreedom of expression

Freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by the 1789 Declaration. The other options are forbidden by law.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 11Question page →

Answer: La ConstitutionThe Constitution

The Constitution, with its preamble, guarantees rights and freedoms in France. The Constitutional Council ensures they are respected.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, préambuleQuestion page →

Answer: Le droit de dire ses opinions, dans le respect de la loiThe right to state your opinions, within the law

Everyone can freely express their ideas. But the law punishes abuses, such as defamation, insults or incitement to hatred.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 11Question page →

Answer: Les droits de la défense, dont le droit à un avocatThe rights of the defence, including the right to a lawyer

The rights of the defence allow anyone to defend themselves in court, in particular with the help of a lawyer.

Source: Code de procédure pénale, article préliminaireQuestion page →

Answer: La Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789The 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen

The 1789 Declaration is the founding text of citizens' rights and duties. It is part of the current Constitution.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789Question page →

Answer: La Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyenThe Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen

The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen was adopted in August 1789, at the start of the French Revolution.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789Question page →

Answer: La liberté de conscienceFreedom of conscience

Freedom of conscience allows people to believe, not to believe or to change religion. The Republic guarantees it.

Source: Loi du 9 décembre 1905, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: librement, jusqu'à la fin de la 14e semaine de grossessefreely, up to the end of the 14th week of pregnancy

In France, any woman can request an abortion until the end of the 14th week of pregnancy. She decides alone, even if she is a minor.

Source: Code de la santé publique, article L2212-1Question page →

Answer: Oui, chaque époux peut demander le divorceYes, either spouse can apply for divorce

In France, divorce is a right. Both husband and wife can request it, even if the other spouse does not agree.

Source: Code civil, article 229Question page →

Answer: abolie en France depuis 1981abolished in France since 1981

The death penalty was abolished by the law of 9 October 1981. Since 2007, the Constitution states that no one may be sentenced to death.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 66-1Question page →

Answer: La loi peut limiter les libertés pour protéger les droits des autresThe law can limit freedoms to protect the rights of others

Freedom means being able to do anything that does not harm others. Only the law can set its limits.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 4Question page →

Answer: Non, la polygamie est interdite et punie par la loiNo, polygamy is forbidden and punishable by law

In France, you cannot marry a second time before your first marriage has ended. Bigamy is a criminal offence.

Source: Code civil, article 147 ; Code pénal, article 433-20Question page →

Answer: Oui, chacun doit protéger l'environnementYes, everyone must protect the environment

The Environmental Charter states that everyone has a duty to preserve the environment. Reducing waste is part of this.

Source: Charte de l'environnement de 2004, article 2Question page →

Answer: interdit et puni d'une amendeforbidden and punishable by a fine

Throwing litter in the street is forbidden everywhere in France. It is punishable by a fine.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Dépôt sauvage de déchetsQuestion page →

Answer: Pour protéger l'ordre public et les droits des autresTo protect public order and the rights of others

Freedoms can be limited by law so as not to harm others and to maintain public order, such as safety.

Source: Déclaration des droits de l'homme et du citoyen de 1789, article 4Question page →

Answer: Alerter les secours (15, 17, 18 ou 112) et aider si possibleCall the emergency services (15, 17, 18 or 112) and help if possible

In an accident, you must call the emergency services and help the victims without putting yourself in danger. Failing to help is punishable by law.

Source: Code pénal, article 223-6Question page →

Answer: De voter et de se présenter à toutes les électionsVote and stand in all elections

French citizenship gives the right to vote from age 18 and to stand for election. You can be a candidate in most elections from 18, but you must be 24 to become a senator.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 3Question page →

Answer: Une sanction, comme une amende ou une peine de prisonA penalty, such as a fine or a prison sentence

A person who breaks the law can be sanctioned by the courts: a fine, community service or prison.

Source: Code pénalQuestion page →

Answer: Assurer la sécurité, surtout dans les zones rurales et périurbainesEnsuring security, especially in rural and suburban areas

The gendarmerie is a military force that ensures the safety of people and property, mainly in the countryside and small towns.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Police et gendarmerieQuestion page →

Answer: Protéger les personnes et les biens et faire respecter la loiProtecting people and property and enforcing the law

The police protect people and property, maintain public order and enforce the law, mainly in cities.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Police et gendarmerieQuestion page →

Answer: Un acte interdit par la loi et puni d'une peineAn act forbidden by law and punishable by a penalty

An offence is behaviour that is forbidden and punished by law. There are three types: minor offence, misdemeanour and serious crime.

Source: Code pénal, article 111-1Question page →

Answer: En évitant les emballages inutiles et en réutilisant les objetsBy avoiding unnecessary packaging and reusing things

To reduce waste, you can buy less packaging, repair, reuse and sort. Burning waste in the open air is forbidden.

Source: Code de l'environnement, article L541-1Question page →

Answer: interdit : il faut l'apporter à la déchetterieforbidden: you must take it to the recycling centre (déchetterie)

Leaving an item on the pavement is illegal dumping, punishable by a fine. You must take it to a recycling centre or request a bulky-waste collection.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Dépôt sauvage de déchetsQuestion page →

Answer: Recruter, transporter ou héberger une personne pour l'exploiterRecruiting, transporting or housing a person in order to exploit them

Human trafficking means recruiting, transporting or housing a person in order to exploit them (forced labour, prostitution…). It is a serious offence, punishable by seven years in prison, and by heavier penalties in aggravated cases.

Source: Code pénal, article 225-4-1Question page →

Answer: Appeler le 17 ou porter plainte, et se faire aiderCall 17 or file a complaint, and get help

A victim of violence can call 17, file a complaint at a police or gendarmerie station and get support, for example through 3919.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Victime de violencesQuestion page →

Answer: Le crimeA crime (crime)

Offences are ranked by seriousness: minor offence, misdemeanour, then crime. A crime is the most serious, such as murder or rape.

Source: Code pénal, article 111-1Question page →

Answer: En 1789In 1789

The French Revolution began in 1789. On 14 July 1789, the people of Paris stormed the Bastille.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Un empereur des FrançaisAn Emperor of the French

Napoleon Bonaparte became Emperor of the French in 1804 as Napoleon I. Among other things, he created the Civil Code.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Charles de GaulleCharles de Gaulle

Charles de Gaulle was a French general and statesman. He led Free France and founded the Fifth Republic.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: La Ve RépubliqueThe Fifth Republic

France has been living under the Fifth Republic since the Constitution of 4 October 1958.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958Question page →

Answer: Le génocide des Juifs d'Europe par les nazisThe genocide of the Jews of Europe by the Nazis

The Shoah is the extermination of about six million Jews by Nazi Germany and its accomplices during the Second World War.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: L'AlgérieAlgeria

Algeria was colonised by France from 1830. It became independent in 1962.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Jules FerryJules Ferry

Jules Ferry, Minister of Public Education, had the laws of 1881 and 1882 passed: public primary school became free, secular and compulsory.

Source: Loi du 16 juin 1881 et loi du 28 mars 1882Question page →

Answer: De 1939 à 1945From 1939 to 1945

The Second World War lasted from 1939 to 1945. In Europe, it ended on 8 May 1945.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: De 1914 à 1918From 1914 to 1918

The First World War lasted from 1914 to 1918. It ended with the armistice of 11 November 1918.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: En 1957In 1957

The EEC was created by the Treaty of Rome, signed on 25 March 1957 by six countries, including France.

Source: Traité de Rome du 25 mars 1957Question page →

Answer: À l'armistice de la Première Guerre mondiale, en 1918The armistice of the First World War, in 1918

On 11 November 1918, the armistice ended the fighting of the First World War. This day honours all those who died for France.

Source: Loi du 24 octobre 1922Question page →

Answer: Charles de GaulleCharles de Gaulle

Charles de Gaulle was elected President of the Republic in December 1958. He was the first president of the Fifth Republic.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958Question page →

Answer: En 1848In 1848

Slavery was definitively abolished in France and its colonies in 1848, thanks in particular to Victor Schœlcher.

Source: Décret du 27 avril 1848 relatif à l'abolition de l'esclavageQuestion page →

Answer: Depuis 1881Since 1881

The law of 16 June 1881, proposed by Jules Ferry, made public primary school free.

Source: Loi du 16 juin 1881Question page →

Answer: CinqFive

France has had five republics. The Fifth Republic has existed since 1958.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Louis XVILouis XVI

Louis XVI was King of France in 1789. He was guillotined in January 1793.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Charles de GaulleCharles de Gaulle

Back in power in 1958, Charles de Gaulle had a new Constitution adopted by referendum: this was the birth of the Fifth Republic.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958Question page →

Answer: La fête nationale, en souvenir de la prise de la BastilleThe national holiday, in memory of the storming of the Bastille

14 July is the national holiday. It recalls the storming of the Bastille in 1789 and the Festival of the Federation in 1790.

Source: Loi du 6 juillet 1880Question page →

Answer: La Première Guerre mondialeThe First World War

The First World War, also called the 'Great War', took place from 1914 to 1918.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: C'est la naissance de la Ve RépubliqueIt saw the birth of the Fifth Republic

The Constitution of the Fifth Republic was adopted by referendum and then promulgated on 4 October 1958. It is still in force.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958Question page →

Answer: La SeineThe Seine

The Seine flows through Paris and into the English Channel. The Loire, the Garonne and the Rhône are other major French rivers.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: LyonLyon

Lyon is a major French city in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Brussels is in Belgium, Geneva in Switzerland and Barcelona in Spain.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: L'océan AtlantiqueThe Atlantic Ocean

France's west coast is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, from Brittany to the Basque Country.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: La capitale de la FranceThe capital of France

Paris is the capital of France. It is home to the main institutions: the Élysée, the National Assembly and the Senate.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: ParisParis

Paris is the capital of France and its largest city. Strasbourg hosts the European Parliament, but it is not the capital.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: L'EuropeEurope

Metropolitan France is in Western Europe. It is one of the founding countries of the European Union.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: La GuadeloupeGuadeloupe

Guadeloupe, in the Caribbean, is an overseas department and region. Madagascar is an independent country, Sicily is Italian and Majorca is Spanish.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 73Question page →

Answer: 1313

Since 2016, metropolitan France has had 13 regions, including Corsica. With the 5 overseas regions, France has 18 regions in total.

Source: Loi du 16 janvier 2015 relative à la délimitation des régionsQuestion page →

Answer: MarseilleMarseille

Marseille, on the Mediterranean, is one of France's largest seaports, along with Le Havre, and the largest on the Mediterranean. Dijon, Clermont-Ferrand and Limoges are far from the sea.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: La mer MéditerranéeThe Mediterranean Sea

The south of metropolitan France is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, with cities such as Marseille, Nice and Montpellier.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: NiceNice

Nice is on the Côte d'Azur, on the Mediterranean. Brest and Bordeaux are on the Atlantic side, and Lille is in the north, far from the sea.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Dans la mer MéditerranéeIn the Mediterranean Sea

Corsica is a French island in the Mediterranean Sea, south-east of mainland France.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Les AlpesThe Alps

The Alps separate France from Italy. Mont Blanc is located there. The Pyrenees are on the border with Spain.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Un auteur de théâtre et comédien du XVIIe siècleA 17th-century playwright and actor

Molière was a famous 17th-century author of comedies, such as The Imaginary Invalid. French is called 'the language of Molière'.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Un poète français du XIXe siècleA 19th-century French poet

Charles Baudelaire was a great 19th-century French poet. His best-known work is The Flowers of Evil.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Une romancière française du XIXe siècleA 19th-century French novelist

George Sand is the pen name of Aurore Dupin, a 19th-century French novelist. She wrote The Devil's Pool.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Une philosophe et écrivaine française féministeA French feminist philosopher and writer

Simone de Beauvoir was a 20th-century French philosopher and writer. Her book The Second Sex (1949) shaped the fight for women's rights.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Un écrivain français, prix Nobel de littératureA French writer and winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature

Albert Camus was a French writer and philosopher born in Algeria. The author of The Stranger, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Un peintre françaisA French painter

Paul Cézanne was a 19th-century French painter, born in Aix-en-Provence. He often painted Mont Sainte-Victoire.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Un peintre d'origine russe, naturalisé françaisA Russian-born painter who became a naturalised French citizen

Marc Chagall was a painter born in 1887 in the Russian Empire. He settled in France and became a French citizen in 1937.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Une artiste et résistante, née aux États-Unis, devenue françaiseAn entertainer and Resistance member, born in the United States, who became French

Joséphine Baker, a singer and dancer born in the United States, became French in 1937. A Resistance member during the war, she entered the Panthéon in 2021.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Édith PiafÉdith Piaf

Édith Piaf is a very famous French singer, known for La Vie en rose. The others are American, Egyptian and British.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Un grand musée situé à ParisA major museum in Paris

The Louvre is a former royal palace in Paris that became a museum in 1793. The Mona Lisa can be seen there.

Source: Musée du Louvre (louvre.fr)Question page →

Answer: Un poète français, auteur de FablesA French poet, author of the Fables

Jean de La Fontaine was a 17th-century French poet. He is famous for his Fables, such as The Crow and the Fox.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Victor HugoVictor Hugo

Victor Hugo was a great 19th-century French writer, author of Les Misérables. Shakespeare was English, Cervantes Spanish and Goethe German.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: À ParisIn Paris

The Eiffel Tower is in Paris. It was built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair.

Source: Livret du citoyen (ministère de l'Intérieur)Question page →

Answer: Le 25 décembre25 December

Christmas is celebrated on 25 December. It is a public holiday in France.

Source: Code du travail, article L3133-1Question page →

Answer: Le 1515

15 is the number to call the SAMU for a medical emergency. 17 is the police, 18 the fire brigade and 119 is for children in danger.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Numéros d'urgenceQuestion page →

Answer: Le 1818

18 is the number to call the fire brigade, for example for a fire or an accident. 15 is the SAMU, 17 the police and 115 the emergency social service.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Numéros d'urgenceQuestion page →

Answer: Assurer sa voiture auprès d’une compagnie d’assuranceInsure your car with an insurance company

In France, car insurance is compulsory. Before driving your car, you must at least have third-party liability insurance.

Source: Code des assurances, article L211-1Question page →

Answer: Il est célébré à la mairie, avec le libre consentement des deux épouxIt is performed at the town hall, with the free consent of both spouses

Only a civil marriage, performed at the town hall by a civil registrar, is recognised by law. Both spouses must freely say yes.

Source: Code civil, articles 146 et 165Question page →

Answer: Dans les 5 jours qui suivent la naissanceWithin 5 days of the birth

The birth must be declared to the civil registry of the town hall where the child was born within 5 days of the delivery.

Source: Code civil, article 55Question page →

Answer: interdit et puni par la loiforbidden and punishable by law

Undeclared work (“working off the books”) is forbidden. The employer risks up to 3 years in prison and a €45,000 fine. The worker has no social protection and can be penalised for fraudulently claiming benefits.

Source: Code du travail, articles L8221-1 et L8224-1Question page →

Answer: Respecter au minimum le SMIC et la convention collectivePay at least the SMIC (minimum wage) and respect the collective agreement

The employer cannot pay less than the SMIC (minimum wage). It must also respect the minimum wages set by the collective agreement of its sector.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Salaire minimum (Smic)Question page →

Answer: Le salaire minimum légal pour un salariéThe legal minimum wage for an employee

The SMIC is the national minimum wage. It is the lowest hourly wage an employer can pay an adult employee.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Salaire minimum (Smic)Question page →

Answer: S’inscrire à France TravailRegister with France Travail

To look for a job, you must first register with France Travail. You can then receive support and, if you are entitled, benefits.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Inscription à France TravailQuestion page →

Answer: 35 heures35 hours

The legal full-time working week is 35 hours. Beyond that, overtime hours are paid at a higher rate or compensated.

Source: Code du travail, article L3121-27Question page →

Answer: Les personnes qui cherchent un emploiPeople looking for a job

France Travail supports people looking for a job or training. It also helps companies recruit.

Source: Code du travail, article L5312-1Question page →

Answer: oui, en respectant les règles liées à son titre de séjouryes, while following the rules attached to their residence permit

A foreign national who is legally resident can set up a business in France. They must hold a residence permit that allows this activity.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Création d'entreprise par un étrangerQuestion page →

Answer: Oui, exactement comme un hommeYes, exactly like a man

Women and men have the same rights. A woman can freely set up her own business, without permission from her husband or her family.

Source: Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, article 1erQuestion page →

Answer: 16 ans16

In principle, a minor can work from the age of 16. There are regulated exceptions, for example from 14 during school holidays.

Source: Code du travail, article L4153-1Question page →

Answer: L’Assurance maladie (CPAM)National health insurance (Assurance maladie, CPAM)

The local health insurance fund (CPAM) reimburses part of health costs. The Carte Vitale often allows automatic reimbursement.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Remboursement des soinsQuestion page →

Answer: Un numéro gratuit pour appeler les secours 24 h sur 24A free number for calling the emergency services 24 hours a day

An emergency number, such as 15, 17, 18 or 112, is free and available day and night to get help quickly.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Numéros d'urgenceQuestion page →

Answer: Toute personne malade peut être soignée, quelle que soit sa situationAnyone who is ill can be treated, whatever their situation

In France, access to healthcare is a right. No one can be refused or discriminated against because of their origin, religion or situation.

Source: Code de la santé publique, article L1110-3Question page →

Answer: À son médecin traitantYour regular doctor (médecin traitant)

For a non-urgent health problem, you should first see your regular doctor (médecin traitant). A&E and 18 are for serious situations.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Médecin traitantQuestion page →

Answer: Il suit votre santé et vous oriente vers d’autres médecins si besoinThey monitor your health and refer you to other doctors if needed

Your regular doctor knows your medical history and coordinates your care. They refer you to a specialist if needed, which means better reimbursement.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Médecin traitantQuestion page →

Answer: En cas de problème grave : accident sérieux, forte douleur, malaiseFor a serious problem: a bad accident, severe pain, collapsing or feeling faint

Hospital A&E is for serious or life-threatening situations. For a minor problem, see your doctor, or call 15 if in doubt.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Urgences médicalesQuestion page →

Answer: Protéger chacun et toute la population contre des maladies gravesTo protect each person and the whole population against serious diseases

Mandatory vaccines protect the child and prevent serious contagious diseases from spreading in the population.

Source: Code de la santé publique, article L3111-2Question page →

Answer: À prouver ses droits à l’Assurance maladie et à être remboursé plus viteTo prove your entitlement to national health insurance and be reimbursed faster

The Carte Vitale proves that you are registered with the national health insurance. At the doctor’s or pharmacy, it allows faster reimbursement.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Carte VitaleQuestion page →

Answer: À rembourser les frais de santé non pris en charge par l’Assurance maladieTo reimburse health costs not covered by national health insurance

The national health insurance does not reimburse everything. A mutuelle, or top-up health insurance, pays all or part of the remaining costs.

Source: service-public.gouv.fr – Complémentaire santé (mutuelle)Question page →

Answer: 16 ans16

Education is compulsory from 3 to 16. After that, until 18, young people must continue training (studies, apprenticeship, employment…).

Source: Code de l'éducation, article L131-1Question page →

Answer: de protéger l’enfant et d’assurer son éducationto protect the child and ensure their education

Parental authority requires parents to protect their child’s safety, health and morality, and to ensure their education.

Source: Code civil, article 371-1Question page →

Answer: Pour tous les enfants de 3 à 16 ans, français ou étrangersFor all children aged 3 to 16, French or foreign

Education is compulsory for all children, girls and boys, French or foreign, from 3 to 16 years old.

Source: Code de l'éducation, article L131-1Question page →

Answer: Le baccalauréatThe baccalauréat

The baccalauréat, or “bac”, is the diploma taken at the end of lycée (upper secondary school). It gives access to higher education.

Source: Ministère de l'Éducation nationale – Le baccalauréatQuestion page →

Answer: Au collègeTo collège (lower secondary school)

After primary school, at around 11, pupils go to collège (lower secondary school) for four years, from sixième to troisième.

Source: Ministère de l'Éducation nationale – Le collègeQuestion page →

Answer: Pour tous les enfants vivant en France, de 3 à 16 ansFor all children living in France, aged 3 to 16

All children living in France, whatever their nationality, must receive education from 3 to 16 years old.

Source: Code de l'éducation, article L131-1Question page →

Answer: doit être présent à tous les cours obligatoiresmust attend all compulsory lessons

An enrolled pupil must attend regularly: they must come to school and follow all compulsory lessons, including PE and swimming.

Source: Code de l'éducation, article L511-1Question page →

Answer: sont accueillis à l’école et aidés pour apprendre le françaisare welcomed at school and helped to learn French

Children who do not speak French have the right to go to school. They receive suitable support to learn French.

Source: Ministère de l'Éducation nationale – Scolarisation des élèves allophonesQuestion page →