– Final test of the orientation course

Living in Germany (test)

The “Life in Germany” exam is the official final test of the orientation course in the integration course. It serves as proof of basic knowledge of German society, the legal system, history, and culture. The LiD exam is a prerequisite for recognition of a fully completed integration course and is also recognized for naturalization in Germany.

🧭 Target groups & requirements

The LiD exam is designed for individuals who:

  • participate in an integration course funded by the BAMF, in particular the orientation course (100 teaching units)
  • would like to apply for naturalization and need to take a test on legal and social knowledge for this purpose
  • apply for a residence permit or settlement permit and demonstrate social knowledge

Those who have attended the orientation course are eligible to take the exam.

Living-in-Germany-test

📚 Structure of the LiD exam

The LiD exam is a written multiple-choice test with a total of 33 questions.

✏️ Examination format:

Duration: 60 minutes
Tasks: 33 questions (one correct answer from four options)

  • 30 nationwide questions from a central questionnaire (310 questions)
  • 3 questions specific to your state (depending on your place of residence)

The topics covered include:

  • Politics in democracy
  • History and responsibility
  • People and society
  • Cultural values and coexistence
  • Legal system and institutions
Multiple-Choice-Test

Living in Germany

The official final test

🎯 Learning objectives & content

The orientation course provides targeted preparation for the LiD exam. It teaches knowledge about:

  • Fundamental rights & constitution (e.g., freedom of expression, equality)
  • State structure & elections
  • Duties and rights as a citizen
  • German history (e.g., Nazi era, division, and reunification)
  • Social norms, religions, family life, education system
  • Social norms, religions, family life, education system

The aim is to turn participants into informed, active members of society—regardless of their level of education.

Evaluation & Result

  • Passed: 17 or more correct answers out of 33
  • The result will be communicated in writing and confirmed by an official certificate.

Registration & Procedure

  1. Registration for the exam must be done in person at Leipziger Str. 33, 01097 Dresden, with your identity card.
  2. The exam will be held in paper form on the agreed date at Gerokstraße 20, 01307 Dresden.
  3. The evaluation is carried out centrally by the BAMF.
  4. The result will be sent by mail or communicated via the course provider.

Costs & Funding

  • The LiD exam is free of charge for participants in the integration course.
  • You can retake the exam at your own expense; the exam fee is currently €25. The exam fee must be paid in cash or by card when you register.

🏆 Significance & Advantages

The “Life in Germany” exam is an important part of the integration process and offers many advantages:

  • Recognized for naturalization (Section 10 StAG)
  • Valid proof of knowledge of the state, history, and society
  • Supports the acquisition of a settlement permit (Section 9 of the Residence Act)
  • Strengthens social understanding and active participation in democratic life in Germany

📌 Tip: Preparation

The BAMF offers an online questionnaire with all 310 nationwide and 10 state-specific questions. This allows you to practice in a targeted manner – with sample tests, learning aids, and translations.

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