Register for the Einbürgerungstest: Dates, Costs and Process
You do not book the Einbürgerungstest directly with the BAMF — you register with an accredited test centre near you, usually a Volkshochschule or another approved provider.
Key takeaways
- Register at an accredited test centre — not online with the BAMF.
- Fee: €25 per attempt, uniform nationwide under § 2 EinbTestV.
- Registration deadline: often 4 weeks before the date — varies by region.
- Bring: valid ID card (Personalausweis) or passport.
- Exam in person only, in German, 33 questions in 60 minutes.
Where do I register?
The BAMF commissions accredited test centres to run the exam. In most regions these are Volkshochschulen (VHS), adult education centres, or integration course providers. Find centres via the BAMF website (“Search test centres").
Look for the nearest centre in your federal state. Dates and registration methods vary — some use online forms, others require in-person or email registration.
Step by step
- Find a test centre near you (BAMF search or your local VHS website).
- Check available dates — often only a few slots per month.
- Complete the registration form and pay the €25 fee (bank transfer or on site, depending on the centre).
- Keep your confirmation — it shows date, time, and address.
- On exam day: arrive 15–30 minutes early with valid ID.
- Take the test: 33 questions, 60 minutes, mark answers on the answer sheet.
- Results arrive later by post from the BAMF — not from the test centre (see Results and waiting time).
Costs and retakes
The exam fee is €25 per attempt (§ 2 EinbTestV). This is separate from the naturalization fee itself (€255 under § 38 StAG, where applicable).
If you fail, you may retake the test as many times as needed — each time with new registration and another €25. There is no statutory waiting period between attempts.
Who is exempt?
Not everyone must take the test. Under § 10 Abs. 6 StAG, exemptions include people with:
- a German school-leaving certificate,
- a German university degree,
- a documented physical, mental, or age-related condition that makes participation impossible.
If unsure, clarify exemption with your naturalization authority before registering.
Practise before you register
Register only when you regularly score 17+ of 33 in timed mock exams — with a margin, not barely at the pass mark.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take the Einbürgerungstest online?
No. The exam takes place in person at accredited test centres only. Online resources are for preparation — e.g. the BAMF interactive catalog or Passbereit.
How early should I register?
Allow at least 4–6 weeks lead time. Popular VHS dates fill quickly, and after the test you need additional weeks for the BAMF certificate.
Can I take the test in English?
No. The exam is in German only. There is no English version — only English preparation material.
Related guides
- Einbürgerungstest vs. Leben in Deutschland: What Is the Difference?
- Einbürgerungstest Results: Waiting Time and Certificate
- Failed the Einbürgerungstest — What Now?
Passbereit is a free, independent study aid. It is not affiliated with the BAMF or with any test centre, and practice results carry no legal weight. The official BAMF question catalog is always the authoritative source. FAQ · Impressum · Datenschutz