Leben in Deutschland test: questions 251–300 with answers
Questions 251 to 300 of the 300 general questions in the official catalogue, in catalogue order. Answer first, then reveal the correct answer, the English translation and an explanation. The practice tool covers all 310 questions and a 33-question mock test.
The test in brief
- 33 questions: 30 general questions and 3 questions about your federal state. Time: 60 minutes.
- Each question has four options and exactly one correct answer.
- For citizenship you need at least 17 correct answers.
- In the „Leben in Deutschland“ test of the integration course, 15 correct answers are enough for the certificate; 17 or more also count for a citizenship application.
Registration, fee, test centres and exemptions: our Leben in Deutschland test guide
Where do the questions and answers come from?
The German wording of the questions and options is taken unchanged from the official catalogue: Annex 1 of the Citizenship Test Ordinance (Einbürgerungstestverordnung). For the 5 questions whose content BAMF updated in its catalogue of 7 May 2025 (for example the question on the current chancellor) we use BAMF's wording. The images also come from the ordinance.
The catalogue does not mark the correct answers. We built the answer key from two independent solutions and then checked it against the answers in BAMF's online catalogue. The English translations and explanations are by Level Exams; in the test itself the questions are asked in German only.
Questions whose answer changes over time (the current chancellor, the parliamentary groups, population and similar) are marked and show the situation in November 2026. Level Exams is not affiliated with BAMF, telc gGmbH, ÖSD or the Goethe-Institut.
All 300 general questions with answers
The questions follow the order of the official catalogue. Answer first, then press „Show answer“ to see the correct option, an English translation and an explanation.
Questions 251–300
Question 251
Wenn man in Deutschland ein Kind schlägt, …
- a)geht das niemanden etwas an.
- b)geht das nur die Familie etwas an.
- c)kann man dafür nicht bestraft werden.
- d)kann man dafür bestraft werden.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) kann man dafür bestraft werden.
In English
In Germany, if you hit a child, …
- a) it is nobody else's business.
- b) it is only the family's business.
- c) you cannot be punished for it.
- d) you can be punished for it.
Explanation: In Germany children have a right to an upbringing free of violence, and physical punishment is prohibited. Hitting a child can be punished as bodily harm, even when parents do it.
Question 252
In Deutschland …
- a)darf man zur gleichen Zeit nur mit einem Partner / einer Partnerin verheiratet sein.
- b)kann man mehrere Ehepartner / Ehepartnerinnen gleichzeitig haben.
- c)darf man nicht wieder heiraten, wenn man einmal verheiratet war.
- d)darf eine Frau nicht wieder heiraten, wenn ihr Mann gestorben ist.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) darf man zur gleichen Zeit nur mit einem Partner / einer Partnerin verheiratet sein.
In English
In Germany …
- a) you may only be married to one partner at a time.
- b) you can have several spouses at the same time.
- c) you may not marry again if you have been married once.
- d) a woman may not marry again if her husband has died.
Explanation: Monogamy applies in Germany: a married person cannot marry someone else while the marriage still exists, and bigamy is a criminal offence. People who are divorced or widowed may marry again.
Question 253
Wo müssen Sie sich anmelden, wenn Sie in Deutschland umziehen?
- a)beim Einwohnermeldeamt
- b)beim Standesamt
- c)beim Ordnungsamt
- d)beim Gewerbeamt
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) beim Einwohnermeldeamt
In English
Where do you have to register when you move house in Germany?
- a) at the residents' registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt)
- b) at the registry office (Standesamt)
- c) at the public order office (Ordnungsamt)
- d) at the trade office (Gewerbeamt)
Explanation: Anyone who moves into a new home must register with the residents' registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt, in many places called Bürgeramt) within two weeks. The registry office (Standesamt) deals with marriages, births and deaths.
Question 254
In Deutschland dürfen Ehepaare sich scheiden lassen. Meistens müssen sie dazu das „Trennungsjahr“ einhalten. Was bedeutet das?
- a)Der Scheidungsprozess dauert ein Jahr
- b)Die Ehegatten sind ein Jahr verheiratet, dann ist die Scheidung möglich
- c)Das Besuchsrecht für die Kinder gilt ein Jahr
- d)Die Ehegatten führen mindestens ein Jahr getrennt ihr eigenes Leben. Danach ist die Scheidung möglich
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Die Ehegatten führen mindestens ein Jahr getrennt ihr eigenes Leben. Danach ist die Scheidung möglich
In English
In Germany married couples may get divorced. In most cases they must first observe the ‘year of separation’ (Trennungsjahr). What does this mean?
- a) The divorce proceedings take one year
- b) The spouses have been married for one year, then divorce is possible
- c) The right to visit the children applies for one year
- d) The spouses lead their own lives separately for at least one year. After that, divorce is possible
Explanation: A divorce requires proof that the marriage has broken down, and the usual proof is that the spouses have lived apart for at least one year. This separation is even possible within the same home if they lead separate lives.
Question 255
Bei Erziehungsproblemen können Eltern in Deutschland Hilfe erhalten vom …
- a)Ordnungsamt.
- b)Schulamt.
- c)Jugendamt.
- d)Gesundheitsamt.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Jugendamt.
In English
In Germany, parents with problems bringing up their children can get help from the …
- a) public order office (Ordnungsamt).
- b) school authority (Schulamt).
- c) youth welfare office (Jugendamt).
- d) public health office (Gesundheitsamt).
Explanation: The youth welfare office (Jugendamt) offers families advice and support with bringing up children. The public order office deals with public order, and the public health office with public health.
Question 256
Ein Ehepaar möchte in Deutschland ein Restaurant eröffnen. Was braucht es dazu unbedingt?
- a)eine Erlaubnis der Polizei
- b)eine Genehmigung einer Partei
- c)eine Genehmigung des Einwohnermeldeamts
- d)eine Gaststättenerlaubnis von der zuständigen Behörde
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) eine Gaststättenerlaubnis von der zuständigen Behörde
In English
A married couple want to open a restaurant in Germany. What do they absolutely need for this?
- a) permission from the police
- b) approval from a political party
- c) approval from the residents' registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt)
- d) a restaurant licence (Gaststättenerlaubnis) from the responsible authority
Explanation: Anyone who wants to open a restaurant needs a licence (Gaststättenerlaubnis) from the responsible authority. The police, political parties and the residents' registration office do not issue such licences.
Question 257
Eine erwachsene Frau möchte in Deutschland das Abitur nachholen. Das kann sie an …
- a)einer Hochschule.
- b)einem Abendgymnasium.
- c)einer Hauptschule.
- d)einer Privatuniversität.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) einem Abendgymnasium.
In English
An adult woman in Germany wants to obtain the Abitur later in life. She can do this at …
- a) a university (Hochschule).
- b) an evening grammar school (Abendgymnasium).
- c) a lower secondary school (Hauptschule).
- d) a private university.
Explanation: Evening grammar schools (Abendgymnasium) let working adults obtain the Abitur later by attending classes in the evening. Universities normally teach people who already have the Abitur, and a Hauptschule does not lead to the Abitur.
Question 258
Was darf das Jugendamt in Deutschland?
- a)Es entscheidet, welche Schule das Kind besucht.
- b)Es kann ein Kind, das geschlagen wird oder hungern muss, aus der Familie nehmen.
- c)Es bezahlt das Kindergeld an die Eltern.
- d)Es kontrolliert, ob das Kind einen Kindergarten besucht.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Es kann ein Kind, das geschlagen wird oder hungern muss, aus der Familie nehmen.
In English
What is the youth welfare office (Jugendamt) allowed to do in Germany?
- a) It decides which school the child attends.
- b) It can take a child who is beaten or has to go hungry out of the family.
- c) It pays child benefit (Kindergeld) to the parents.
- d) It checks whether the child attends a kindergarten.
Explanation: If a child's welfare is at risk, for example because the child is beaten or left hungry, the youth welfare office can take the child into care and remove it from the family for the time being. Child benefit is paid by the Familienkasse, not by the youth welfare office.
Question 259
Das Berufsinformationszentrum BIZ bei der Bundesagentur für Arbeit in Deutschland hilft bei der …
- a)Rentenberechnung.
- b)Lehrstellensuche.
- c)Steuererklärung.
- d)Krankenversicherung.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Lehrstellensuche.
In English
In Germany, the vocational information centre BIZ at the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) helps with …
- a) calculating pensions.
- b) finding an apprenticeship.
- c) tax returns.
- d) health insurance.
Explanation: The vocational information centre (BIZ) provides information on occupations, vocational training and university studies, and helps young people in particular to find an apprenticeship (Lehrstelle). Pensions, taxes and health insurance are handled by other institutions.
Question 260
In Deutschland hat ein Kind in der Schule…
- a)Recht auf unbegrenzte Freizeit.
- b)Wahlfreiheit für alle Fächer.
- c)Anspruch auf Schulgeld.
- d)Anwesenheitspflicht.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Anwesenheitspflicht.
In English
In Germany, a child at school has …
- a) a right to unlimited free time.
- b) free choice of all subjects.
- c) a right to school money.
- d) a duty to attend.
Explanation: Schooling is compulsory in Germany (Schulpflicht), so children must attend lessons regularly. If a child misses school without a valid reason, the parents can be fined.
Question 261
Ein Mann möchte mit 30 Jahren in Deutschland sein Abitur nachholen. Wo kann er das tun? An …
- a)einer Hochschule
- b)einem Abendgymnasium
- c)einer Hauptschule
- d)einer Privatuniversität
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) einem Abendgymnasium
In English
A 30-year-old man in Germany wants to obtain his Abitur later in life. Where can he do this? At …
- a) a university (Hochschule)
- b) an evening grammar school (Abendgymnasium)
- c) a lower secondary school (Hauptschule)
- d) a private university
Explanation: Evening grammar schools (Abendgymnasium) exist for adults who want to obtain the Abitur later, with classes held after work. You normally go to university after the Abitur, so you cannot obtain it there.
Question 262
Was bedeutet in Deutschland der Grundsatz der Gleichbehandlung?
- a)Niemand darf z. B. wegen einer Behinderung benachteiligt werden.
- b)Man darf andere Personen benachteiligen, wenn ausreichende persönliche Gründe hierfür vorliegen.
- c)Niemand darf gegen Personen klagen, wenn sie benachteiligt wurden.
- d)Es ist für alle Gesetz, benachteiligten Gruppen jährlich Geld zu spenden.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Niemand darf z. B. wegen einer Behinderung benachteiligt werden.
In English
What does the principle of equal treatment mean in Germany?
- a) No one may be discriminated against, for example because of a disability.
- b) You may discriminate against other people if there are sufficient personal reasons for it.
- c) No one may take legal action against people if they have been discriminated against.
- d) By law, everyone must donate money to disadvantaged groups every year.
Explanation: The principle of equal treatment is set out in Article 3 of the Basic Law: no one may be disadvantaged because of their sex, origin, religion or disability, for example. The General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) strengthens this protection in areas such as working life.
Question 263
In Deutschland sind Jugendliche ab 14 Jahren strafmündig. Das bedeutet: Jugendliche, die 14 Jahre und älter sind und gegen Strafgesetze verstoßen, …
- a)werden bestraft.
- b)werden wie Erwachsene behandelt.
- c)teilen die Strafe mit ihren Eltern.
- d)werden nicht bestraft.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) werden bestraft.
In English
In Germany young people are criminally responsible from the age of 14. This means: young people aged 14 or over who break criminal law …
- a) are punished.
- b) are treated like adults.
- c) share the punishment with their parents.
- d) are not punished.
Explanation: From the age of 14, young people can be punished if they commit a crime. However, juvenile criminal law (Jugendstrafrecht), which focuses on education, applies to 14- to 17-year-olds, so they are not treated like adults.
Question 264
Zu welchem Fest tragen Menschen in Deutschland bunte Kostüme und Masken?
- a)am Rosenmontag
- b)am Maifeiertag
- c)beim Oktoberfest
- d)an Pfingsten
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) am Rosenmontag
In English
At which festival do people in Germany wear colourful costumes and masks?
- a) on Rose Monday (Rosenmontag)
- b) on May Day (Maifeiertag)
- c) at the Oktoberfest
- d) at Pentecost (Pfingsten)
Explanation: Rose Monday (Rosenmontag) is the high point of the carnival season (Karneval, Fasching); especially in the Rhineland there are big parades with people in costume. The Oktoberfest is a folk festival in Munich.
Question 265
Wohin muss man in Deutschland zuerst gehen, wenn man heiraten möchte?
- a)zum Einwohnermeldeamt
- b)zum Ordnungsamt
- c)zur Agentur für Arbeit
- d)zum Standesamt
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) zum Standesamt
In English
Where do you have to go first in Germany if you want to get married?
- a) to the residents' registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt)
- b) to the public order office (Ordnungsamt)
- c) to the Federal Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit)
- d) to the registry office (Standesamt)
Explanation: A legally valid marriage in Germany takes place at the registry office (Standesamt), which is also where you give notice of your intention to marry. A religious ceremony is optional and does not replace the civil marriage.
Question 266
Wann beginnt die gesetzliche Nachtruhe in Deutschland?
- a)wenn die Sonne untergeht
- b)wenn die Nachbarn schlafen gehen
- c)um 0 Uhr, Mitternacht
- d)um 22 Uhr
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) um 22 Uhr
In English
When does the statutory night-time quiet period begin in Germany?
- a) when the sun goes down
- b) when the neighbours go to bed
- c) at 0:00, midnight
- d) at 22:00
Explanation: The night-time quiet period usually lasts from 10 pm to 6 am; during this time loud music or noisy work is not allowed. Details may be set out in state or local rules or in the building's house rules (Hausordnung).
Question 267
Eine junge Frau in Deutschland, 22 Jahre alt, lebt mit ihrem Freund zusammen. Die Eltern der Frau finden das nicht gut, weil ihnen der Freund nicht gefällt. Was können die Eltern tun?
- a)Sie müssen die Entscheidung der volljährigen Tochter respektieren.
- b)Sie haben das Recht, die Tochter in die elterliche Wohnung zurückzuholen.
- c)Sie können zur Polizei gehen und die Tochter anzeigen.
- d)Sie suchen einen anderen Mann für die Tochter.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Sie müssen die Entscheidung der volljährigen Tochter respektieren.
In English
A young woman in Germany, 22 years old, lives with her boyfriend. The woman's parents do not approve because they do not like the boyfriend. What can the parents do?
- a) They have to respect the decision of their adult daughter.
- b) They have the right to bring their daughter back to the parental home.
- c) They can go to the police and report their daughter.
- d) They look for another man for their daughter.
Explanation: At 22 the woman is an adult and decides for herself whom she lives with; this is part of the right to the free development of one's personality (Article 2(1) of the Basic Law). Her parents may not bring her home by force, and forced marriage is a criminal offence.
Question 268
Eine junge Frau will den Führerschein machen. Sie hat Angst vor der Prüfung, weil ihre Muttersprache nicht Deutsch ist. Was ist richtig?
- a)Sie muss mindestens zehn Jahre in Deutschland leben, bevor sie den Führerschein machen kann.
- b)Wenn sie kein Deutsch kann, darf sie keinen Führerschein haben.
- c)Sie muss den Führerschein in dem Land machen, in dem man ihre Sprache spricht.
- d)Sie kann die Theorie-Prüfung vielleicht in ihrer Muttersprache machen. Es gibt mehr als zehn Sprachen zur Auswahl.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Sie kann die Theorie-Prüfung vielleicht in ihrer Muttersprache machen. Es gibt mehr als zehn Sprachen zur Auswahl.
In English
A young woman wants to get her driving licence. She is afraid of the test because her native language is not German. Which statement is correct?
- a) She must live in Germany for at least ten years before she can get a driving licence.
- b) If she cannot speak German, she may not have a driving licence.
- c) She has to get her driving licence in a country where her language is spoken.
- d) She may be able to take the theory test in her native language. There are more than ten languages to choose from.
Explanation: In Germany the theory part of the driving test can be taken not only in German but also in several foreign languages, for example Turkish, English and Arabic. So having a native language other than German is not an obstacle in itself.
Question 269
In Deutschland haben Kinder ab dem Alter von drei Jahren bis zur Ersteinschulung einen Anspruch auf …
- a)monatliches Taschengeld.
- b)einen Platz in einem Sportverein.
- c)einen Kindergartenplatz.
- d)einen Ferienpass.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) einen Kindergartenplatz.
In English
In Germany, children from the age of three until they start school are entitled to …
- a) monthly pocket money.
- b) a place in a sports club.
- c) a place at a kindergarten.
- d) a holiday pass (Ferienpass).
Explanation: In Germany every child has a legal right to a kindergarten place from the age of three until starting school. It is a right, not an obligation: the parents decide whether their child attends.
Question 270
Die Volkshochschule in Deutschland ist eine Einrichtung …
- a)für den Religionsunterricht.
- b)nur für Jugendliche.
- c)zur Weiterbildung.
- d)nur für Rentner und Rentnerinnen.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) zur Weiterbildung.
In English
In Germany, the adult education centre (Volkshochschule) is an institution …
- a) for religious education.
- b) only for young people.
- c) for further education.
- d) only for pensioners.
Explanation: Adult education centres (Volkshochschule) offer adults of all ages affordable courses in areas such as languages, computing, art and health. Many also run integration courses (Integrationskurs).
Question 271
Was ist in Deutschland ein Brauch zu Weihnachten?
- a)bunte Eier verstecken
- b)einen Tannenbaum schmücken
- c)sich mit Masken und Kostümen verkleiden
- d)Kürbisse vor die Tür stellen
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) einen Tannenbaum schmücken
In English
What is a Christmas custom in Germany?
- a) hiding coloured eggs
- b) decorating a fir tree
- c) dressing up in masks and costumes
- d) putting pumpkins outside the door
Explanation: At Christmas people decorate a fir tree (Tannenbaum, Weihnachtsbaum) at home, and presents are usually given on the evening of 24 December. Coloured eggs belong to Easter, costumes to carnival and pumpkins to Halloween.
Question 272
Welche Lebensform ist in Deutschland nicht erlaubt?
- a)Mann und Frau sind geschieden und leben mit neuen Partnern zusammen.
- b)Zwei Frauen leben zusammen.
- c)Ein allein erziehender Vater lebt mit seinen zwei Kindern zusammen.
- d)Ein Mann ist mit zwei Frauen zur selben Zeit verheiratet.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Ein Mann ist mit zwei Frauen zur selben Zeit verheiratet.
In English
Which way of living is not permitted in Germany?
- a) A man and a woman are divorced and live with new partners.
- b) Two women live together.
- c) A single father lives with his two children.
- d) A man is married to two women at the same time.
Explanation: In Germany you can only be married to one person at a time; polygamy is prohibited and punishable. Divorced people with new partners, same-sex couples and single-parent families are free to live together.
Question 273
Bei Erziehungsproblemen gehen Sie in Deutschland …
- a)zum Arzt / zur Ärztin.
- b)zum Gesundheitsamt.
- c)zum Einwohnermeldeamt.
- d)zum Jugendamt.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) zum Jugendamt.
In English
In Germany, if you have problems bringing up your children, you go …
- a) to the doctor.
- b) to the public health office (Gesundheitsamt).
- c) to the residents' registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt).
- d) to the youth welfare office (Jugendamt).
Explanation: The youth welfare office (Jugendamt) gives parents advice on bringing up children and arranges further support if needed. The residents' registration office deals with registering addresses, and the public health office with public health.
Question 274
Sie haben in Deutschland absichtlich einen Brief geöffnet, der an eine andere Person adressiert ist. Was haben Sie nicht beachtet?
- a)das Schweigerecht
- b)das Briefgeheimnis
- c)die Schweigepflicht
- d)die Meinungsfreiheit
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) das Briefgeheimnis
In English
In Germany you have deliberately opened a letter addressed to another person. What have you failed to respect?
- a) the right to remain silent (Schweigerecht)
- b) the privacy of correspondence (Briefgeheimnis)
- c) the duty of confidentiality (Schweigepflicht)
- d) freedom of expression (Meinungsfreiheit)
Explanation: The privacy of correspondence (Briefgeheimnis) is protected by Article 10 of the Basic Law, and deliberately opening a letter addressed to someone else is also a criminal offence. The duty of confidentiality (Schweigepflicht) applies to doctors and lawyers, for example.
Question 275
Was braucht man in Deutschland für eine Ehescheidung?
- a)die Einwilligung der Eltern
- b)ein Attest eines Arztes / einer Ärztin
- c)die Einwilligung der Kinder
- d)die Unterstützung eines Anwalts / einer Anwältin
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) die Unterstützung eines Anwalts / einer Anwältin
In English
What do you need in Germany to get a divorce?
- a) the consent of your parents
- b) a doctor's certificate
- c) the consent of your children
- d) the support of a lawyer
Explanation: A divorce is decided by the family court, and the petition for divorce must be filed through a lawyer. The consent of parents or children, or a doctor's certificate, is not required.
Question 276
Was sollten Sie tun, wenn Sie von Ihrem Ansprechpartner / Ihrer Ansprechpartnerin in einer deutschen Behörde schlecht behandelt werden?
- a)Ich kann nichts tun.
- b)Ich muss mir diese Behandlung gefallen lassen.
- c)Ich drohe der Person.
- d)Ich kann mich beim Behördenleiter / bei der Behördenleiterin beschweren.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Ich kann mich beim Behördenleiter / bei der Behördenleiterin beschweren.
In English
What should you do if the person dealing with you at a German public authority treats you badly?
- a) I cannot do anything.
- b) I have to put up with this treatment.
- c) I threaten the person.
- d) I can complain to the head of the authority.
Explanation: If you are unhappy with an official's conduct, you can complain to the head of the authority or to a higher authority (Dienstaufsichtsbeschwerde). Threatening someone, on the other hand, is not allowed and can be punished.
Question 277
Eine Frau, die ein zweijähriges Kind hat, bewirbt sich in Deutschland um eine Stelle. Was ist ein Beispiel für Diskriminierung? Sie bekommt die Stelle nur deshalb nicht, weil sie …
- a)kein Englisch spricht.
- b)zu hohe Gehaltsvorstellungen hat.
- c)keine Erfahrungen in diesem Beruf hat.
- d)Mutter ist.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Mutter ist.
In English
A woman with a two-year-old child applies for a job in Germany. Which is an example of discrimination? She does not get the job only because she …
- a) does not speak English.
- b) has salary expectations that are too high.
- c) has no experience in this profession.
- d) is a mother.
Explanation: Rejecting a woman for a job only because she is a mother is discrimination on the grounds of sex and is prohibited by the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). Language skills, experience or salary expectations, by contrast, are legitimate job-related criteria.
Question 278
Ein Mann im Rollstuhl hat sich auf eine Stelle als Buchhalter beworben. Was ist ein Beispiel für Diskriminierung? Er bekommt die Stelle nur deshalb nicht, weil er …
- a)im Rollstuhl sitzt.
- b)keine Erfahrung hat.
- c)zu hohe Gehaltsvorstellungen hat.
- d)kein Englisch spricht.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) im Rollstuhl sitzt.
In English
A man in a wheelchair has applied for a job as an accountant. Which is an example of discrimination? He does not get the job only because he …
- a) uses a wheelchair.
- b) has no experience.
- c) has salary expectations that are too high.
- d) does not speak English.
Explanation: Using a wheelchair does not prevent someone from working as an accountant, so rejecting him only because of his disability is discrimination. Article 3 of the Basic Law and the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) protect people with disabilities.
Question 279
In den meisten Mietshäusern in Deutschland gibt es eine „Hausordnung“. Was steht in einer solchen „Hausordnung“? Sie nennt …
- a)Regeln für die Benutzung öffentlicher Verkehrsmittel.
- b)alle Mieter und Mieterinnen im Haus.
- c)Regeln, an die sich alle Bewohner und Bewohnerinnen halten müssen.
- d)die Adresse des nächsten Ordnungsamtes.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Regeln, an die sich alle Bewohner und Bewohnerinnen halten müssen.
In English
Most rented apartment buildings in Germany have ‘house rules’ (Hausordnung). What is in such ‘house rules’? They list …
- a) rules for using public transport.
- b) all the tenants in the building.
- c) rules that all residents must follow.
- d) the address of the nearest public order office (Ordnungsamt).
Explanation: House rules (Hausordnung) govern living together in a building, for example quiet hours, cleaning duties, waste separation and the use of shared areas. They are usually part of the tenancy agreement and binding on all residents.
Question 280
Wenn Sie sich in Deutschland gegen einen falschen Steuerbescheid wehren wollen, müssen Sie …
- a)nichts machen.
- b)den Bescheid wegwerfen.
- c)Einspruch einlegen.
- d)warten, bis ein anderer Bescheid kommt.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Einspruch einlegen.
In English
If you want to challenge an incorrect tax assessment (Steuerbescheid) in Germany, you must …
- a) do nothing.
- b) throw the assessment away.
- c) lodge an objection.
- d) wait until another assessment arrives.
Explanation: An objection (Einspruch) against an incorrect tax assessment must be lodged with the tax office within one month of receiving it. If this deadline passes, the assessment becomes final and as a rule can no longer be changed.
Question 281
Zwei Freunde wollen in ein öffentliches Schwimmbad in Deutschland. Beide haben eine dunkle Hautfarbe und werden deshalb nicht hineingelassen. Welches Recht wird in dieser Situation verletzt? Das Recht auf …
- a)Meinungsfreiheit
- b)Gleichbehandlung
- c)Versammlungsfreiheit
- d)Freizügigkeit
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Gleichbehandlung
In English
Two friends want to go to a public swimming pool in Germany. Both have dark skin and are refused entry for that reason. Which right is being violated in this situation? The right to …
- a) freedom of expression (Meinungsfreiheit)
- b) equal treatment (Gleichbehandlung)
- c) freedom of assembly (Versammlungsfreiheit)
- d) freedom of movement (Freizügigkeit)
Explanation: The principle of equal treatment (Article 3 of the Basic Law) forbids discrimination against anyone because of their origin. Refusing people entry to a pool because of their skin colour is racial discrimination, which the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) also expressly prohibits.
Question 282
Welches Ehrenamt müssen deutsche Staatsbürger/Staatsbürgerinnen übernehmen, wenn sie dazu aufgefordert werden?
- a)Vereinstrainer/Vereinstrainerin
- b)Wahlhelfer/Wahlhelferin
- c)Bibliotheksaufsicht
- d)Lehrer/Lehrerin
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Wahlhelfer/Wahlhelferin
In English
Which honorary office must German citizens take on if they are asked to?
- a) club coach (Vereinstrainer)
- b) poll worker (Wahlhelfer)
- c) library supervisor (Bibliotheksaufsicht)
- d) teacher (Lehrer)
Explanation: Serving as a poll worker (Wahlhelfer) is an honorary office; citizens who are entitled to vote may only refuse it for an important reason. Poll workers run the voting at the polling station and count the votes.
Question 283
Was tun Sie, wenn Sie eine falsche Rechnung von einer deutschen Behörde bekommen?
- a)Ich lasse die Rechnung liegen.
- b)Ich lege Widerspruch bei der Behörde ein.
- c)Ich schicke die Rechnung an die Behörde zurück.
- d)Ich gehe mit der Rechnung zum Finanzamt.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Ich lege Widerspruch bei der Behörde ein.
In English
What do you do if you receive an incorrect bill from a German public authority?
- a) I leave the bill lying around.
- b) I lodge an objection (Widerspruch) with the authority.
- c) I send the bill back to the authority.
- d) I take the bill to the tax office (Finanzamt).
Explanation: You can usually lodge a written objection (Widerspruch) with the authority against its decision or bill within one month. Ignoring the bill or simply sending it back does not count as an objection, and the deadline may pass.
Question 284
Was man für die Arbeit können muss, ändert sich in Zukunft sehr schnell. Was kann man tun?
- a)Es ist egal, was man lernt.
- b)Erwachsene müssen auch nach der Ausbildung immer weiter lernen.
- c)Kinder lernen in der Schule alles, was im Beruf wichtig ist. Nach der Schule muss man nicht weiter lernen.
- d)Alle müssen früher aufhören zu arbeiten, weil sich alles ändert.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Erwachsene müssen auch nach der Ausbildung immer weiter lernen.
In English
The skills needed for work will change very quickly in the future. What can people do?
- a) It does not matter what you learn.
- b) Adults must keep on learning even after their training.
- c) Children learn everything that is important for work at school. After school you do not need to keep learning.
- d) Everyone must stop working earlier because everything is changing.
Explanation: Because technology and the working world change quickly, it is important to keep learning after your training (lifelong learning). In Germany there are, for example, adult education centres (Volkshochschule) and vocational further-training courses for this.
Question 285
Frau Frost arbeitet als fest angestellte Mitarbeiterin in einem Büro. Was muss sie nicht von ihrem Gehalt bezahlen?
- a)Lohnsteuer
- b)Beiträge zur Arbeitslosenversicherung
- c)Beiträge zur Renten- und Krankenversicherung
- d)Umsatzsteuer
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Umsatzsteuer
In English
Ms Frost is a permanent employee in an office. What does she not have to pay out of her salary?
- a) wage tax (Lohnsteuer)
- b) unemployment insurance contributions
- c) pension and health insurance contributions
- d) value added tax (Umsatzsteuer)
Explanation: Wage tax and contributions to pension, health, long-term care and unemployment insurance are deducted from an employee's gross salary. Value added tax (Umsatzsteuer) is not deducted from wages; it is included in the price of goods and services, and businesses pass it on to the tax office.
Question 286
Welche Organisation in einer Firma hilft den Arbeitnehmern und Arbeitnehmerinnen bei Problemen mit dem Arbeitgeber / der Arbeitgeberin?
- a)der Betriebsrat
- b)der Betriebsprüfer / die Betriebsprüferin
- c)die Betriebsgruppe
- d)das Betriebsmanagement
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) der Betriebsrat
In English
Which body in a company helps employees when they have problems with their employer?
- a) the works council (Betriebsrat)
- b) the company auditor (Betriebsprüfer)
- c) the company group (Betriebsgruppe)
- d) the company management (Betriebsmanagement)
Explanation: The works council (Betriebsrat) is elected by the employees and represents their interests towards the employer; it has a say, for example, in dismissals and working hours. A Betriebsprüfer is an auditor who examines a company's books on behalf of the tax office.
Question 287
Sie möchten bei einer Firma in Deutschland Ihr Arbeitsverhältnis beenden. Was müssen Sie beachten?
- a)die Gehaltszahlungen
- b)die Arbeitszeit
- c)die Kündigungsfrist
- d)die Versicherungspflicht
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) die Kündigungsfrist
In English
You want to end your employment with a company in Germany. What must you observe?
- a) the salary payments (Gehaltszahlungen)
- b) the working hours (Arbeitszeit)
- c) the notice period (Kündigungsfrist)
- d) compulsory insurance (Versicherungspflicht)
Explanation: Anyone who terminates an employment contract must observe the notice period set by law, a collective agreement or the employment contract. Notice must be given in writing; an email or text message is not enough.
Question 288
Woraus begründet sich Deutschlands besondere Verantwortung für Israel?
- a)aus der Mitgliedschaft in der Europäischen Union (EU)
- b)aus den nationalsozialistischen Verbrechen gegen Juden
- c)aus dem Grundgesetz der Bundesrepublik Deutschland
- d)aus der christlichen Tradition
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) aus den nationalsozialistischen Verbrechen gegen Juden
In English
What is the basis of Germany's special responsibility towards Israel?
- a) membership of the European Union (EU)
- b) the National Socialist crimes against Jews
- c) the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) of the Federal Republic of Germany
- d) the Christian tradition
Explanation: The National Socialists murdered about six million Jews in the Holocaust. Because of these crimes, Germany bears a special historical responsibility towards Jewish life and the State of Israel.
Question 289
Ein Mann mit dunkler Hautfarbe bewirbt sich um eine Stelle als Kellner in einem Restaurant in Deutschland. Was ist ein Beispiel für Diskriminierung? Er bekommt die Stelle nur deshalb nicht, weil …
- a)seine Deutschkenntnisse zu gering sind.
- b)er zu hohe Gehaltsvorstellungen hat.
- c)er eine dunkle Haut hat.
- d)er keine Erfahrungen im Beruf hat.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) er eine dunkle Haut hat.
In English
A man with dark skin applies for a job as a waiter in a restaurant in Germany. Which is an example of discrimination? He does not get the job only because …
- a) his German is not good enough.
- b) his salary expectations are too high.
- c) he has dark skin.
- d) he has no experience in the job.
Explanation: Not hiring someone because of their skin colour is racial discrimination and is prohibited by the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). Insufficient German, lack of experience or high salary expectations, by contrast, are job-related reasons.
Question 290
Sie haben in Deutschland einen Fernseher gekauft. Zu Hause packen Sie den Fernseher aus, doch er funktioniert nicht. Der Fernseher ist kaputt. Was können Sie machen?
- a)eine Anzeige schreiben
- b)den Fernseher reklamieren
- c)das Gerät ungefragt austauschen
- d)die Garantie verlängern
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) den Fernseher reklamieren
In English
You have bought a television in Germany. At home you unpack it, but it does not work. The television is broken. What can you do?
- a) file a report with the police (Anzeige)
- b) make a complaint about the television (reklamieren)
- c) exchange the device without asking
- d) extend the guarantee
Explanation: If a new product is faulty, you can report it to the seller and ask for a repair or replacement; by law the seller is liable for defects for two years (Gewährleistung). This right is separate from any voluntary manufacturer's guarantee (Garantie).
Question 291
Warum muss man in Deutschland bei der Steuererklärung aufschreiben, ob man zu einer Kirche gehört oder nicht? Weil ...
- a)es eine Kirchensteuer gibt, die an die Einkommen- und Lohnsteuer geknüpft ist.
- b)das für die Statistik in Deutschland wichtig ist.
- c)man mehr Steuern zahlen muss, wenn man nicht zu einer Kirche gehört.
- d)die Kirche für die Steuererklärung verantwortlich ist.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) es eine Kirchensteuer gibt, die an die Einkommen- und Lohnsteuer geknüpft ist.
In English
Why do you have to state on your tax return in Germany whether you belong to a church or not? Because …
- a) there is a church tax that is linked to income tax and wage tax.
- b) it is important for statistics in Germany.
- c) you have to pay more tax if you do not belong to a church.
- d) the church is responsible for the tax return.
Explanation: Recognised religious communities such as the major Christian churches can levy church tax (Kirchensteuer) on their members; it is calculated on the basis of income tax and collected by the tax office. That is why membership matters for tax purposes; non-members do not pay church tax.
Question 292
Die Menschen in Deutschland leben nach dem Grundsatz der religiösen Toleranz. Was bedeutet das?
- a)Es dürfen keine Moscheen gebaut werden.
- b)Alle Menschen glauben an Gott.
- c)Jeder kann glauben, was er möchte.
- d)Der Staat entscheidet, an welchen Gott die Menschen glauben.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Jeder kann glauben, was er möchte.
In English
People in Germany live according to the principle of religious tolerance. What does this mean?
- a) No mosques may be built.
- b) All people believe in God.
- c) Everyone can believe what they want.
- d) The state decides which god people believe in.
Explanation: Freedom of religion and conscience is guaranteed by Article 4 of the Basic Law: everyone may follow a religion, change it or have no religion at all. The state is neutral and cannot impose a belief on anyone.
Question 293
Was ist in Deutschland ein Brauch an Ostern?
- a)Kürbisse vor die Tür stellen
- b)einen Tannenbaum schmücken
- c)Eier bemalen
- d)Raketen in die Luft schießen
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Eier bemalen
In English
What is an Easter custom in Germany?
- a) putting pumpkins outside the door
- b) decorating a fir tree
- c) painting eggs
- d) shooting rockets into the air
Explanation: At Easter (Ostern) eggs are painted and hidden for children; according to tradition, the Easter Bunny (Osterhase) brings them. A fir tree belongs to Christmas, and fireworks to New Year's Eve (Silvester).
Question 294
Pfingsten ist ein …
- a)christlicher Feiertag.
- b)deutscher Gedenktag.
- c)internationaler Trauertag.
- d)bayerischer Brauch.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) christlicher Feiertag.
In English
Pentecost (Pfingsten) is a …
- a) Christian holiday.
- b) German day of remembrance.
- c) international day of mourning.
- d) Bavarian custom.
Explanation: Pentecost (Pfingsten) is a Christian holiday celebrated seven weeks after Easter, when Christians remember the coming of the Holy Spirit. Whit Monday (Pfingstmontag) is a public holiday throughout Germany.
Question 295
Welche Religion hat die europäische und deutsche Kultur geprägt?
- a)der Hinduismus
- b)das Christentum
- c)der Buddhismus
- d)der Islam
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) das Christentum
In English
Which religion has shaped European and German culture?
- a) Hinduism
- b) Christianity
- c) Buddhism
- d) Islam
Explanation: Over many centuries Christianity has deeply influenced the calendar, holidays, architecture and values in Europe and Germany, as public holidays such as Christmas and Easter show. Today other religions, such as Islam and Judaism, are also practised in Germany.
Question 296
In Deutschland nennt man die letzten vier Wochen vor Weihnachten …
- a)den Buß- und Bettag.
- b)das Erntedankfest.
- c)die Adventszeit.
- d)Allerheiligen.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) die Adventszeit.
In English
In Germany the last four weeks before Christmas are called …
- a) the Day of Repentance and Prayer (Buß- und Bettag).
- b) the Harvest Festival (Erntedankfest).
- c) the Advent season (Adventszeit).
- d) All Saints' Day (Allerheiligen).
Explanation: The Advent season (Adventszeit) covers the four Sundays before Christmas; in many families another candle on the Advent wreath (Adventskranz) is lit each Sunday. The other options are single feast days or days of remembrance.
Question 297
Aus welchem Land sind die meisten Migranten / Migrantinnen nach Deutschland gekommen?
- a)Italien
- b)Polen
- c)Marokko
- d)Türkei
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Türkei
In English
From which country have most migrants come to Germany?
- a) Italy
- b) Poland
- c) Morocco
- d) Turkey
Explanation: People of Turkish origin have for decades been one of the largest migrant groups in Germany. This goes back to the recruitment of guest workers that began in 1961 and the family reunification that followed.
Question 298
In der DDR lebten vor allem Migranten aus …
- a)Vietnam, Polen, Mosambik.
- b)Frankreich, Rumänien, Somalia.
- c)Chile, Ungarn, Simbabwe.
- d)Nordkorea, Mexiko, Ägypten.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Vietnam, Polen, Mosambik.
In English
Migrants living in the GDR (East Germany) came mainly from …
- a) Vietnam, Poland, Mozambique.
- b) France, Romania, Somalia.
- c) Chile, Hungary, Zimbabwe.
- d) North Korea, Mexico, Egypt.
Explanation: The GDR brought in contract workers (Vertragsarbeiter) through agreements with other socialist countries; many of them came from Vietnam, Poland and Mozambique. They mostly lived in hostels, and their stay was meant to be limited in time.
Question 299
Ausländische Arbeitnehmer und Arbeitnehmerinnen, die in den 50er und 60er Jahren von der Bundesrepublik Deutschland angeworben wurden, nannte man …
- a)Schwarzarbeiter / Schwarzarbeiterinnen
- b)Gastarbeiter / Gastarbeiterinnen
- c)Zeitarbeiter / Zeitarbeiterinnen
- d)Schichtarbeiter / Schichtarbeiterinnen
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Gastarbeiter / Gastarbeiterinnen
In English
Foreign workers recruited by the Federal Republic of Germany in the 1950s and 60s were called …
- a) illicit workers (Schwarzarbeiter)
- b) guest workers (Gastarbeiter)
- c) temporary agency workers (Zeitarbeiter)
- d) shift workers (Schichtarbeiter)
Explanation: During its economic boom, the Federal Republic recruited workers through agreements with Italy, Turkey and other countries to fill labour shortages. They were called guest workers (Gastarbeiter) because at first they were expected to stay only for a while; many settled permanently.
Question 300
Aus welchem Land kamen die ersten Gastarbeiterinnen und Gastarbeiter in die Bundesrepublik Deutschland?
- a)Italien
- b)Spanien
- c)Portugal
- d)Türkei
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Italien
In English
From which country did the first guest workers come to the Federal Republic of Germany?
- a) Italy
- b) Spain
- c) Portugal
- d) Turkey
Explanation: The Federal Republic signed its first recruitment agreement (Anwerbeabkommen) with Italy in 1955. Agreements with Spain and Greece followed in 1960, with Turkey in 1961 and with Portugal in 1964.
Questions for your federal state
Each state's 10 questions with answers, translation and explanations on their own page.
- Baden-Württemberg
- Bavaria (Bayern)
- Berlin
- Brandenburg
- Bremen
- Hamburg
- Hesse (Hessen)
- Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
- Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen)
- North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen)
- Rhineland-Palatinate (Rheinland-Pfalz)
- Saarland
- Saxony (Sachsen)
- Saxony-Anhalt (Sachsen-Anhalt)
- Schleswig-Holstein
- Thuringia (Thüringen)
Citizenship also requires B1 German
Besides this knowledge test, a citizenship application needs a German certificate at level B1 or higher (for example telc Deutsch B1, the DTZ or the Goethe-Zertifikat B1). Our guide explains which certificates are accepted, and the free placement test shows where you stand.