Leben in Deutschland test: questions 51–100 with answers

Questions 51 to 100 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.

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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 51–100

Question 51
Zu einem demokratischen Rechtsstaat gehört es nicht, dass …
1. a)Menschen sich kritisch über die Regierung äußern können.
2. b)Bürger friedlich demonstrieren gehen dürfen.
3. c)Menschen von einer Privatpolizei ohne Grund verhaftet werden.
4. d)jemand ein Verbrechen begeht und deshalb verhaftet wird.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Menschen von einer Privatpolizei ohne Grund verhaftet werden.
In English
It is not part of a democratic state under the rule of law that …
1. a) people can express criticism of the government.
2. b) citizens may demonstrate peacefully.
3. c) people are arrested without reason by a private police force.
4. d) someone commits a crime and is arrested for it.
Explanation: In a state under the rule of law, only the state may use force, and only on the basis of the law; people may be deprived of their liberty only for a legal reason and under judicial control. A private police force arresting people without reason violates these principles.
Question 52
Was bedeutet „Volkssouveränität“? Alle Staatsgewalt geht vom …
1. a)Volke aus.
2. b)Bundestag aus.
3. c)preußischen König aus.
4. d)Bundesverfassungsgericht aus.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Volke aus.
In English
What does „Volkssouveränität“ (popular sovereignty) mean? All state authority comes from …
1. a) the people.
2. b) the Bundestag.
3. c) the King of Prussia.
4. d) the Federal Constitutional Court.
Explanation: According to Article 20 of the Basic Law, all state authority comes from the people. The people exercise it through elections and votes and through the legislative, executive and judicial bodies.
Question 53
Was bedeutet „Rechtsstaat“ in Deutschland?
1. a)Der Staat hat Recht.
2. b)Es gibt nur rechte Parteien.
3. c)Die Bürger und Bürgerinnen entscheiden über Gesetze.
4. d)Der Staat muss die Gesetze einhalten.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Der Staat muss die Gesetze einhalten.
In English
What does „Rechtsstaat“ (rule of law) mean in Germany?
1. a) The state is right.
2. b) There are only right-wing parties.
3. c) Citizens decide on laws.
4. d) The state must obey the laws.
Explanation: In a state under the rule of law, the state itself is bound by law and justice (Article 20(3) of the Basic Law), and citizens can challenge state decisions before independent courts. Laws are passed by the elected parliament, not directly by the citizens.
Question 54
Was ist keine staatliche Gewalt in Deutschland?
1. a)Legislative
2. b)Judikative
3. c)Exekutive
4. d)Direktive
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Direktive
In English
What is not a state power in Germany?
1. a) Legislature (Legislative)
2. b) Judiciary (Judikative)
3. c) Executive (Exekutive)
4. d) Directive (Direktive)
Explanation: State power is divided into three branches: the legislature (Legislative), the executive (Exekutive) and the judiciary (Judikative). There is no state power called ‘Direktive’.
Question 55
Was zeigt dieses Bild?
1. a)den Bundestagssitz in Berlin
2. b)das Bundesverfassungsgericht in Karlsruhe
3. c)das Bundesratsgebäude in Berlin
4. d)das Bundeskanzleramt in Berlin
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) den Bundestagssitz in Berlin
In English
What does this picture show?
1. a) the seat of the Bundestag in Berlin
2. b) the Federal Constitutional Court in Karlsruhe
3. c) the Bundesrat building in Berlin
4. d) the Federal Chancellery (Bundeskanzleramt) in Berlin
Explanation: The picture shows the Reichstag building in Berlin, with its columned entrance, corner towers and glass dome in the centre. The Bundestag has met in this building since 1999.
Question 56
Welches Amt gehört in Deutschland zur Gemeindeverwaltung?
1. a)Pfarramt
2. b)Ordnungsamt
3. c)Finanzamt
4. d)Auswärtiges Amt
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Ordnungsamt
In English
Which office in Germany is part of the municipal administration?
1. a) Parish office (Pfarramt)
2. b) Public order office (Ordnungsamt)
3. c) Tax office (Finanzamt)
4. d) Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt)
Explanation: The public order office (Ordnungsamt) is part of the municipal administration and deals with public order and safety, for example illegal parking. The tax office belongs to the federal state, the Foreign Office to the federal government and the parish office to a church.
Question 57
Wer wird meistens zum Präsidenten/zur Präsidentin des Deutschen Bundestages gewählt?
1. a)der/die älteste Abgeordnete im Parlament
2. b)der Ministerpräsident/die Ministerpräsidentin des größten Bundeslandes
3. c)ein ehemaliger Bundeskanzler/eine ehemalige Bundeskanzlerin
4. d)ein Abgeordneter/eine Abgeordnete der stärksten Fraktion
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) ein Abgeordneter/eine Abgeordnete der stärksten Fraktion
In English
Who is usually elected President of the German Bundestag?
1. a) the oldest member of parliament
2. b) the Minister-President of the largest federal state
3. c) a former Federal Chancellor
4. d) a member of the strongest parliamentary group
Explanation: The members of the Bundestag elect their President from among themselves (Article 40 of the Basic Law). By tradition, the candidate comes from the strongest parliamentary group. The ‘Alterspräsident’ who opens the first sitting of a new Bundestag only chairs it until the President is elected.
Question 58
Wer ernennt in Deutschland die Minister / die Ministerinnen der Bundesregierung?
1. a)der Präsident / die Präsidentin des Bundesverfassungsgerichtes
2. b)der Bundespräsident / die Bundespräsidentin
3. c)der Bundesratspräsident / die Bundesratspräsidentin
4. d)der Bundestagspräsident / die Bundestagspräsidentin
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) der Bundespräsident / die Bundespräsidentin
In English
Who appoints the ministers of the Federal Government in Germany?
1. a) the President of the Federal Constitutional Court
2. b) the Federal President
3. c) the President of the Bundesrat
4. d) the President of the Bundestag
Explanation: Federal ministers are proposed by the Federal Chancellor and appointed by the Federal President (Article 64 of the Basic Law). In practice the Chancellor chooses them, while the formal appointment is made by the President.
Question 59
Vor wie vielen Jahren gab es erstmals eine jüdische Gemeinde auf dem Gebiet des heutigen Deutschlands?
1. a)vor etwa 300 Jahren
2. b)vor etwa 700 Jahren
3. c)vor etwa 1150 Jahren
4. d)vor etwa 1700 Jahren
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) vor etwa 1700 Jahren
In English
How many years ago was there a Jewish community on the territory of present-day Germany for the first time?
1. a) about 300 years ago
2. b) about 700 years ago
3. c) about 1150 years ago
4. d) about 1700 years ago
Explanation: The earliest written evidence of Jewish life on the territory of present-day Germany is a decree issued for Cologne by the Roman Emperor Constantine in 321. For this reason, ‘1700 years of Jewish life in Germany’ was celebrated in 2021.
Question 60
In Deutschland gehören der Bundestag und der Bundesrat zur …
1. a)Exekutive.
2. b)Legislative.
3. c)Direktive.
4. d)Judikative.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Legislative.
In English
In Germany, the Bundestag and the Bundesrat belong to the …
1. a) executive (Exekutive).
2. b) legislature (Legislative).
3. c) directive (Direktive).
4. d) judiciary (Judikative).
Explanation: The Bundestag and the Bundesrat are legislative bodies: the Bundestag passes federal laws, and the federal states take part in legislation through the Bundesrat. The executive is the government and administration, the judiciary is the courts; there is no power called ‘Direktive’.
Question 61
Was bedeutet „Volkssouveränität“?
1. a)Der König / die Königin herrscht über das Volk.
2. b)Das Bundesverfassungsgericht steht über der Verfassung.
3. c)Die Interessenverbände üben die Souveränität zusammen mit der Regierung aus.
4. d)Die Staatsgewalt geht vom Volke aus.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Die Staatsgewalt geht vom Volke aus.
In English
What does „Volkssouveränität“ (popular sovereignty) mean?
1. a) The king / queen rules over the people.
2. b) The Federal Constitutional Court stands above the constitution.
3. c) Interest groups exercise sovereignty together with the government.
4. d) State authority derives from the people.
Explanation: Popular sovereignty means that state authority derives from the people. Under Article 20 of the Basic Law, the people exercise it through elections and votes and through the legislative, executive and judicial bodies. The Federal Constitutional Court, too, is bound by the constitution.
Question 62
Wenn das Parlament eines deutschen Bundeslandes gewählt wird, nennt man das …
1. a)Kommunalwahl.
2. b)Landtagswahl.
3. c)Europawahl.
4. d)Bundestagswahl.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Landtagswahl.
In English
When the parliament of a German federal state is elected, this is called …
1. a) a local election (Kommunalwahl).
2. b) a state parliament election (Landtagswahl).
3. c) a European election (Europawahl).
4. d) a Bundestag election (Bundestagswahl).
Explanation: The parliament of a federal state is called the Landtag, so its election is a Landtagswahl. A Kommunalwahl is a local election in the municipalities, and a Bundestagswahl elects the parliament for the whole of Germany.
Question 63
Was gehört in Deutschland nicht zur Exekutive?
1. a)die Polizei
2. b)die Gerichte
3. c)das Finanzamt
4. d)die Ministerien
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) die Gerichte
In English
What is not part of the executive in Germany?
1. a) the police
2. b) the courts
3. c) the tax office (Finanzamt)
4. d) the ministries
Explanation: Under the separation of powers, the courts belong to the judiciary (Judikative). The police, tax offices and ministries carry out the laws and are part of the executive (Exekutive).
Question 64
Die Bundesrepublik Deutschland ist heute gegliedert in …
1. a)vier Besatzungszonen.
2. b)einen Oststaat und einen Weststaat.
3. c)16 Kantone.
4. d)Bund, Länder und Kommunen.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Bund, Länder und Kommunen.
In English
Today the Federal Republic of Germany is divided into …
1. a) four occupation zones.
2. b) an eastern state and a western state.
3. c) 16 cantons.
4. d) the Federation, the federal states and the municipalities.
Explanation: Germany is a federal state with three levels: the Federation (Bund), the 16 federal states (Länder) and the municipalities (Kommunen). The four occupation zones existed after 1945 and the two German states from 1949 to 1990; cantons are the units of Switzerland.
Question 65
Es gehört nicht zu den Aufgaben des Deutschen Bundestages, …
1. a)Gesetze zu entwerfen.
2. b)die Bundesregierung zu kontrollieren.
3. c)den Bundeskanzler / die Bundeskanzlerin zu wählen.
4. d)das Bundeskabinett zu bilden.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) das Bundeskabinett zu bilden.
In English
It is not one of the tasks of the German Bundestag …
1. a) to draft laws.
2. b) to scrutinise the Federal Government.
3. c) to elect the Federal Chancellor.
4. d) to form the Federal Cabinet.
Explanation: The Federal Chancellor forms the cabinet: he or she chooses the ministers, and the Federal President appoints them on the Chancellor's proposal. The Bundestag drafts and passes laws, scrutinises the government and elects the Chancellor.
Question 66
Welche Städte haben die größten jüdischen Gemeinden in Deutschland?
1. a)Berlin und München
2. b)Hamburg und Essen
3. c)Nürnberg und Stuttgart
4. d)Worms und Speyer
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Berlin und München
In English
Which cities have the largest Jewish communities in Germany?
1. a) Berlin and Munich
2. b) Hamburg and Essen
3. c) Nuremberg and Stuttgart
4. d) Worms and Speyer
Explanation: Germany's largest Jewish communities are in Berlin and Munich. Worms and Speyer are historically important for their medieval Jewish communities, but the largest communities of today are not there.
Question 67
Was ist in Deutschland vor allem eine Aufgabe der Bundesländer?
1. a)Verteidigungspolitik
2. b)Außenpolitik
3. c)Wirtschaftspolitik
4. d)Schulpolitik
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Schulpolitik
In English
What is mainly a responsibility of the federal states in Germany?
1. a) defence policy
2. b) foreign policy
3. c) economic policy
4. d) school policy
Explanation: School and education policy is largely the responsibility of the federal states (Kulturhoheit der Länder), which is why school systems differ from state to state. Defence and foreign policy are matters for the Federation.
Question 68
Warum kontrolliert der Staat in Deutschland das Schulwesen?
1. a)weil es in Deutschland nur staatliche Schulen gibt
2. b)weil alle Schüler und Schülerinnen einen Schulabschluss haben müssen
3. c)weil es in den Bundesländern verschiedene Schulen gibt
4. d)weil es nach dem Grundgesetz seine Aufgabe ist
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) weil es nach dem Grundgesetz seine Aufgabe ist
In English
Why does the state control the school system in Germany?
1. a) because there are only state schools in Germany
2. b) because all pupils must obtain a school-leaving qualification
3. c) because there are different schools in the federal states
4. d) because it is its task under the Basic Law
Explanation: Under Article 7 of the Basic Law, the entire school system is under the supervision of the state. There are private schools in Germany too, but they are also supervised by the state, and pupils are not required to obtain a school-leaving qualification.
Question 69
Die Bundesrepublik Deutschland hat einen dreistufigen Verwaltungsaufbau. Wie heißt die unterste politische Stufe?
1. a)Stadträte
2. b)Landräte
3. c)Gemeinden
4. d)Bezirksämter
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Gemeinden
In English
The Federal Republic of Germany has a three-tier administrative structure. What is the lowest political tier called?
1. a) city councils (Stadträte)
2. b) district administrators (Landräte)
3. c) municipalities (Gemeinden)
4. d) district offices (Bezirksämter)
Explanation: The three tiers are the Federation (Bund), the federal states and the municipalities (Gemeinden), so the municipalities are the lowest political tier. City councils and district administrators (Landräte) are bodies or offices, not a tier of their own.
Question 70
Der deutsche Bundespräsident Gustav Heinemann gibt Helmut Schmidt 1974 die Ernennungsurkunde zum deutschen Bundeskanzler. Was gehört zu den Aufgaben des deutschen Bundespräsidenten / der deutschen Bundespräsidentin?
1. a)Er / Sie führt die Regierungsgeschäfte.
2. b)Er / Sie kontrolliert die Regierungspartei.
3. c)Er / Sie wählt die Minister / Ministerinnen aus.
4. d)Er / Sie schlägt den Kanzler / die Kanzlerin zur Wahl vor.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Er / Sie schlägt den Kanzler / die Kanzlerin zur Wahl vor.
In English
German Federal President Gustav Heinemann hands Helmut Schmidt his certificate of appointment as Federal Chancellor in 1974. Which of these is one of the tasks of the German Federal President?
1. a) He or she runs the business of government.
2. b) He or she controls the governing party.
3. c) He or she chooses the ministers.
4. d) He or she proposes the Chancellor for election.
Explanation: The black-and-white photo shows President Heinemann handing Helmut Schmidt his certificate of appointment as Chancellor. Under Article 63 of the Basic Law, the Federal President proposes a candidate for Chancellor to the Bundestag and appoints the person elected. The Chancellor leads the government and chooses the ministers.
Question 71
Wo hält sich der deutsche Bundeskanzler/die deutsche Bundeskanzlerin am häufigsten auf? Am häufigsten ist er/sie ...
1. a)in Bonn, weil sich dort das Bundeskanzleramt und der Bundestag befinden.
2. b)auf Schloss Meseberg, dem Gästehaus der Bundesregierung, um Staatsgäste zu empfangen.
3. c)auf Schloss Bellevue, dem Amtssitz des Bundespräsidenten/der Bundespräsidentin, um Staatsgäste zu empfangen.
4. d)in Berlin, weil sich dort das Bundeskanzleramt und der Bundestag befinden.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) in Berlin, weil sich dort das Bundeskanzleramt und der Bundestag befinden.
In English
Where does the German Federal Chancellor spend most of his or her time? Most of the time he or she is …
1. a) in Bonn, because the Federal Chancellery and the Bundestag are there.
2. b) at Meseberg Palace, the Federal Government's guest house, to receive state guests.
3. c) at Bellevue Palace, the official seat of the Federal President, to receive state guests.
4. d) in Berlin, because the Federal Chancellery and the Bundestag are there.
Explanation: The Federal Chancellery and the Bundestag are in Berlin, so that is where the Chancellor mainly works. Bonn used to be the seat of government; Bellevue Palace is the Federal President's official seat and Meseberg Palace is the Federal Government's guest house.
Question 72
Wie heißt der jetzige Bundeskanzler/die jetzige Bundeskanzlerin von Deutschland?
1. a)Gerhard Schröder
2. b)Angela Merkel
3. c)Ursula von der Leyen
4. d)Friedrich Merz
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Friedrich Merz
In English
What is the name of the current Federal Chancellor of Germany?
1. a) Gerhard Schröder
2. b) Angela Merkel
3. c) Ursula von der Leyen
4. d) Friedrich Merz
Explanation: Friedrich Merz (CDU) has been Federal Chancellor since May 2025 (as of November 2026). Gerhard Schröder and Angela Merkel are former chancellors; Ursula von der Leyen is President of the European Commission.
The answer to this question can change over time (situation in November 2026).
Question 73
Die beiden größten Fraktionen im Deutschen Bundestag heißen zurzeit …
1. a)CDU/CSU und AfD.
2. b)Die Linke und Bündnis 90/Die Grünen.
3. c)Bündnis 90/Die Grünen und SPD.
4. d)Die Linke und CDU/CSU.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) CDU/CSU und AfD.
In English
The two largest parliamentary groups in the German Bundestag are currently …
1. a) CDU/CSU and AfD.
2. b) Die Linke and Bündnis 90/Die Grünen.
3. c) Bündnis 90/Die Grünen and SPD.
4. d) Die Linke and CDU/CSU.
Explanation: Since the 2025 Bundestag election, the two largest parliamentary groups have been CDU/CSU and AfD (as of November 2026). SPD, Bündnis 90/Die Grünen and Die Linke have smaller groups.
The answer to this question can change over time (situation in November 2026).
Question 74
Wie heißt das Parlament für ganz Deutschland?
1. a)Bundesversammlung
2. b)Volkskammer
3. c)Bundestag
4. d)Bundesgerichtshof
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Bundestag
In English
What is the name of the parliament for the whole of Germany?
1. a) Federal Convention (Bundesversammlung)
2. b) People's Chamber (Volkskammer)
3. c) Bundestag
4. d) Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof)
Explanation: The parliament for the whole of Germany is the Bundestag. The Federal Convention only meets to elect the Federal President, the Volkskammer was the parliament of the GDR, and the Bundesgerichtshof is a supreme court.
Question 75
Wie heißt Deutschlands heutiges Staatsoberhaupt?
1. a)Frank-Walter Steinmeier
2. b)Bärbel Bas
3. c)Bodo Ramelow
4. d)Joachim Gauck
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Frank-Walter Steinmeier
In English
What is the name of Germany's current head of state?
1. a) Frank-Walter Steinmeier
2. b) Bärbel Bas
3. c) Bodo Ramelow
4. d) Joachim Gauck
Explanation: The head of state is the Federal President, an office held by Frank-Walter Steinmeier since 2017 (as of November 2026). His second term ends in March 2027. Joachim Gauck was his predecessor.
The answer to this question can change over time (situation in November 2026).
Question 76
Was bedeutet die Abkürzung CDU in Deutschland?
1. a)Christliche Deutsche Union
2. b)Club Deutscher Unternehmer
3. c)Christlicher Deutscher Umweltschutz
4. d)Christlich Demokratische Union
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Christlich Demokratische Union
In English
What does the abbreviation CDU stand for in Germany?
1. a) Christian German Union (Christliche Deutsche Union)
2. b) Club of German Entrepreneurs (Club Deutscher Unternehmer)
3. c) Christian German Environmental Protection (Christlicher Deutscher Umweltschutz)
4. d) Christian Democratic Union (Christlich Demokratische Union)
Explanation: CDU stands for Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands (Christian Democratic Union of Germany). In Bavaria, its sister party, the CSU, stands for election instead.
Question 77
Was ist die Bundeswehr?
1. a)die deutsche Polizei
2. b)ein deutscher Hafen
3. c)eine deutsche Bürgerinitiative
4. d)die deutsche Armee
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) die deutsche Armee
In English
What is the Bundeswehr?
1. a) the German police
2. b) a German port
3. c) a German citizens' initiative
4. d) the German army
Explanation: The Bundeswehr is Germany's armed forces and was founded in 1955. The police are a separate institution and are largely a matter for the federal states.
Question 78
Was bedeutet die Abkürzung SPD?
1. a)Sozialistische Partei Deutschlands
2. b)Sozialpolitische Partei Deutschlands
3. c)Sozialdemokratische Partei Deutschlands
4. d)Sozialgerechte Partei Deutschlands
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Sozialdemokratische Partei Deutschlands
In English
What does the abbreviation SPD stand for?
1. a) Socialist Party of Germany (Sozialistische Partei Deutschlands)
2. b) Social Policy Party of Germany (Sozialpolitische Partei Deutschlands)
3. c) Social Democratic Party of Germany (Sozialdemokratische Partei Deutschlands)
4. d) Socially Just Party of Germany (Sozialgerechte Partei Deutschlands)
Explanation: SPD stands for Sozialdemokratische Partei Deutschlands (Social Democratic Party of Germany). Its roots go back to the 19th century, and it is regarded as Germany's oldest party.
Question 79
Was bedeutet die Abkürzung FDP in Deutschland?
1. a)Friedliche Demonstrative Partei
2. b)Freie Deutschland Partei
3. c)Führende Demokratische Partei
4. d)Freie Demokratische Partei
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Freie Demokratische Partei
In English
What does the abbreviation FDP stand for in Germany?
1. a) Peaceful Demonstrative Party (Friedliche Demonstrative Partei)
2. b) Free Germany Party (Freie Deutschland Partei)
3. c) Leading Democratic Party (Führende Demokratische Partei)
4. d) Free Democratic Party (Freie Demokratische Partei)
Explanation: FDP stands for Freie Demokratische Partei (Free Democratic Party). It is a liberal party and has been a coalition partner in many federal governments.
Question 80
Welches Gericht in Deutschland ist zuständig für die Auslegung des Grundgesetzes?
1. a)Oberlandesgericht
2. b)Amtsgericht
3. c)Bundesverfassungsgericht
4. d)Verwaltungsgericht
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Bundesverfassungsgericht
In English
Which court in Germany is responsible for interpreting the Basic Law (Grundgesetz)?
1. a) Higher Regional Court (Oberlandesgericht)
2. b) Local Court (Amtsgericht)
3. c) Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht)
4. d) Administrative Court (Verwaltungsgericht)
Explanation: The Federal Constitutional Court in Karlsruhe gives the binding interpretation of the Basic Law and reviews whether laws comply with it. The other options are courts that hear civil, criminal or administrative cases.
Question 81
Wer wählt den Bundeskanzler / die Bundeskanzlerin in Deutschland?
1. a)der Bundesrat
2. b)die Bundesversammlung
3. c)das Volk
4. d)der Bundestag
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) der Bundestag
In English
Who elects the Federal Chancellor in Germany?
1. a) the Bundesrat
2. b) the Federal Convention (Bundesversammlung)
3. c) the people
4. d) the Bundestag
Explanation: The Bundestag elects the Federal Chancellor on the proposal of the Federal President (Article 63 of the Basic Law). The people do not elect the Chancellor directly, and the Federal Convention elects the Federal President.
Question 82
Wer leitet das deutsche Bundeskabinett?
1. a)der Bundestagspräsident/die Bundestagspräsidentin
2. b)der Bundespräsident/die Bundespräsidentin
3. c)der Bundesratspräsident/die Bundesratspräsidentin
4. d)der Bundeskanzler/die Bundeskanzlerin
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) der Bundeskanzler/die Bundeskanzlerin
In English
Who leads the German Federal Cabinet?
1. a) the President of the Bundestag (Bundestagspräsident)
2. b) the Federal President
3. c) the President of the Bundesrat (Bundesratspräsident)
4. d) the Federal Chancellor
Explanation: The Federal Chancellor leads the cabinet, sets the guidelines of policy and is responsible for them (Article 65 of the Basic Law). The Federal President represents the state, and the Presidents of the Bundestag and the Bundesrat chair the sessions of their own bodies.
Question 83
Wer wählt den deutschen Bundeskanzler / die deutsche Bundeskanzlerin?
1. a)das Volk
2. b)die Bundesversammlung
3. c)der Bundestag
4. d)die Bundesregierung
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) der Bundestag
In English
Who elects the German Federal Chancellor?
1. a) the people
2. b) the Federal Convention (Bundesversammlung)
3. c) the Bundestag
4. d) the Federal Government
Explanation: The Chancellor is elected by the members of the Bundestag; in Germany the people do not elect the Chancellor directly. The Federal Government is only formed after the Chancellor has been elected.
Question 84
Welche Hauptaufgabe hat der deutsche Bundespräsident / die deutsche Bundespräsidentin? Er / Sie …
1. a)regiert das Land.
2. b)entwirft die Gesetze.
3. c)repräsentiert das Land.
4. d)überwacht die Einhaltung der Gesetze.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) repräsentiert das Land.
In English
What is the main task of the German Federal President? He or she …
1. a) governs the country.
2. b) drafts the laws.
3. c) represents the country.
4. d) monitors compliance with the laws.
Explanation: The Federal President represents Germany at home and abroad, for example by signing laws and receiving state guests. The country is governed by the Federal Government under the Chancellor.
Question 85
Wer bildet den deutschen Bundesrat?
1. a)die Abgeordneten des Bundestages
2. b)die Minister und Ministerinnen der Bundesregierung
3. c)die Regierungsvertreter der Bundesländer
4. d)die Parteimitglieder
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) die Regierungsvertreter der Bundesländer
In English
Who makes up the German Bundesrat?
1. a) the members of the Bundestag
2. b) the ministers of the Federal Government
3. c) the government representatives of the federal states
4. d) the party members
Explanation: The Bundesrat consists of members of the governments of the federal states (Article 51 of the Basic Law). Through it the states take part in federal legislation; each state has between three and six votes, depending on its population.
Question 86
Wer wählt in Deutschland den Bundespräsidenten / die Bundespräsidentin?
1. a)die Bundesversammlung
2. b)der Bundesrat
3. c)das Bundesparlament
4. d)das Bundesverfassungsgericht
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) die Bundesversammlung
In English
Who elects the Federal President in Germany?
1. a) the Federal Convention (Bundesversammlung)
2. b) the Bundesrat
3. c) the federal parliament (Bundesparlament)
4. d) the Federal Constitutional Court
Explanation: The Federal President is elected by the Federal Convention (Bundesversammlung). It is made up of all members of the Bundestag and an equal number of members chosen by the state parliaments, and it meets only for this election.
Question 87
Wer ist das Staatsoberhaupt der Bundesrepublik Deutschland?
1. a)der Bundeskanzler / die Bundeskanzlerin
2. b)der Bundespräsident / die Bundespräsidentin
3. c)der Bundesratspräsident / die Bundesratspräsidentin
4. d)der Bundestagspräsident / die Bundestagspräsidentin
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) der Bundespräsident / die Bundespräsidentin
In English
Who is the head of state of the Federal Republic of Germany?
1. a) the Federal Chancellor
2. b) the Federal President
3. c) the President of the Bundesrat (Bundesratspräsident)
4. d) the President of the Bundestag (Bundestagspräsident)
Explanation: The head of state is the Federal President, whose role is mainly representative. The head of government is the Federal Chancellor, which is why the two offices are often confused.
Question 88
Die parlamentarische Opposition im Deutschen Bundestag …
1. a)kontrolliert die Regierung.
2. b)entscheidet, wer Bundesminister / Bundesministerin wird.
3. c)bestimmt, wer im Bundesrat sitzt.
4. d)schlägt die Regierungschefs / Regierungschefinnen der Länder vor.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) kontrolliert die Regierung.
In English
The parliamentary opposition in the German Bundestag …
1. a) scrutinises the government.
2. b) decides who becomes a federal minister.
3. c) determines who sits in the Bundesrat.
4. d) proposes the heads of the state governments.
Explanation: The parties that are not in government form the opposition. Their job is to criticise and question the government and to scrutinise its work. Ministers are chosen by the Chancellor, and the members of the Bundesrat are sent by the state governments.
Question 89
Wie nennt man in Deutschland die Vereinigung von Abgeordneten einer Partei im Parlament?
1. a)Verband
2. b)Ältestenrat
3. c)Fraktion
4. d)Opposition
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) Fraktion
In English
In Germany, what do you call the association of a party's members in parliament?
1. a) association (Verband)
2. b) Council of Elders (Ältestenrat)
3. c) parliamentary group (Fraktion)
4. d) opposition (Opposition)
Explanation: Members of parliament from the same party, or from closely allied parties, form a parliamentary group (Fraktion); CDU and CSU, for example, form a joint group in the Bundestag. The Council of Elders (Ältestenrat) is a body that helps organise parliamentary business.
Question 90
Die deutschen Bundesländer wirken an der Gesetzgebung des Bundes mit durch …
1. a)den Bundesrat.
2. b)die Bundesversammlung.
3. c)den Bundestag.
4. d)die Bundesregierung.
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) den Bundesrat.
In English
The German federal states take part in federal legislation through …
1. a) the Bundesrat.
2. b) the Federal Convention (Bundesversammlung).
3. c) the Bundestag.
4. d) the Federal Government.
Explanation: Under Article 50 of the Basic Law, the federal states take part in federal legislation and administration through the Bundesrat. It is made up of representatives of the state governments, and some laws cannot be passed without its consent.
Question 91
In Deutschland kann ein Regierungswechsel in einem Bundesland Auswirkungen auf die Bundespolitik haben. Das Regieren wird …
1. a)schwieriger, wenn sich dadurch die Mehrheit im Bundestag ändert.
2. b)leichter, wenn dadurch neue Parteien in den Bundesrat kommen.
3. c)schwieriger, wenn dadurch die Mehrheit im Bundesrat verändert wird.
4. d)leichter, wenn es sich um ein reiches Bundesland handelt.
›Show answer
Correct answer: c) schwieriger, wenn dadurch die Mehrheit im Bundesrat verändert wird.
In English
In Germany, a change of government in a federal state can affect federal politics. Governing becomes …
1. a) harder if this changes the majority in the Bundestag.
2. b) easier if this brings new parties into the Bundesrat.
3. c) harder if this changes the majority in the Bundesrat.
4. d) easier if it is a rich federal state.
Explanation: When a state's government changes, its votes in the Bundesrat pass to the new government. If the majority in the Bundesrat shifts against the federal government, laws that need the Bundesrat's consent become harder to pass. State elections do not change the majority in the Bundestag.
Question 92
Was bedeutet die Abkürzung CSU in Deutschland?
1. a)Christlich Sichere Union
2. b)Christlich Süddeutsche Union
3. c)Christlich Sozialer Unternehmerverband
4. d)Christlich Soziale Union
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) Christlich Soziale Union
In English
What does the abbreviation CSU stand for in Germany?
1. a) Christian Safe Union (Christlich Sichere Union)
2. b) Christian South German Union (Christlich Süddeutsche Union)
3. c) Christian Social Employers' Association (Christlich Sozialer Unternehmerverband)
4. d) Christian Social Union (Christlich Soziale Union)
Explanation: CSU stands for Christlich-Soziale Union in Bayern (Christian Social Union in Bavaria). It only stands for election in Bavaria and forms a joint parliamentary group (Fraktion) with the CDU in the Bundestag.
Question 93
Je mehr „Zweitstimmen“ eine Partei bei einer Bundestagswahl bekommt, desto …
1. a)weniger Erststimmen kann sie haben.
2. b)mehr Direktkandidaten der Partei ziehen ins Parlament ein.
3. c)größer ist das Risiko, eine Koalition bilden zu müssen.
4. d)mehr Sitze erhält die Partei im Parlament.
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) mehr Sitze erhält die Partei im Parlament.
In English
The more „Zweitstimmen“ (second votes) a party receives in a Bundestag election, the …
1. a) fewer first votes (Erststimmen) it can have.
2. b) more of the party's direct candidates enter parliament.
3. c) greater the risk of having to form a coalition.
4. d) more seats the party receives in parliament.
Explanation: The second vote (Zweitstimme) is cast for a party and determines how the seats in the Bundestag are divided proportionally between the parties. The first vote (Erststimme) is for a candidate in the constituency.
Question 94
Ab welchem Alter darf man in Deutschland an der Wahl zum Deutschen Bundestag teilnehmen?
1. a)16
2. b)18
3. c)21
4. d)23
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) 18
In English
From what age can you take part in elections to the German Bundestag?
1. a) 16
2. b) 18
3. c) 21
4. d) 23
Explanation: To vote in a Bundestag election you must be a German citizen and at least 18. In Germany the voting age for the European Parliament has been 16 since 2024, but the question asks about the Bundestag.
Question 95
Was gilt für die meisten Kinder in Deutschland?
1. a)Wahlpflicht
2. b)Schulpflicht
3. c)Schweigepflicht
4. d)Religionspflicht
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) Schulpflicht
In English
What applies to most children in Germany?
1. a) compulsory voting (Wahlpflicht)
2. b) compulsory schooling (Schulpflicht)
3. c) duty of confidentiality (Schweigepflicht)
4. d) compulsory religion (Religionspflicht)
Explanation: In Germany children are required to attend school; the details are set by state law. There is no compulsory voting and no compulsory religion, and the duty of confidentiality applies to professions such as doctors.
Question 96
Wie kann jemand, der den Holocaust leugnet, bestraft werden?
1. a)Kürzung sozialer Leistungen
2. b)bis zu 100 Sozialstunden
3. c)gar nicht, Holocaustleugnung ist erlaubt
4. d)mit Freiheitsstrafe bis zu fünf Jahren oder mit Geldstrafe
›Show answer
Correct answer: d) mit Freiheitsstrafe bis zu fünf Jahren oder mit Geldstrafe
In English
How can someone who denies the Holocaust be punished?
1. a) by reducing their social benefits
2. b) with up to 100 hours of community service
3. c) not at all, Holocaust denial is allowed
4. d) with imprisonment of up to five years or a fine
Explanation: Publicly denying the Holocaust, committed under National Socialism, is a criminal offence under Section 130 of the Criminal Code (incitement to hatred, Volksverhetzung). It is punishable by up to five years' imprisonment or a fine.
Question 97
Was bezahlt man in Deutschland automatisch, wenn man fest angestellt ist?
1. a)Sozialversicherung
2. b)Sozialhilfe
3. c)Kindergeld
4. d)Wohngeld
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Sozialversicherung
In English
What do you automatically pay in Germany if you are in permanent employment?
1. a) social insurance (Sozialversicherung)
2. b) social assistance (Sozialhilfe)
3. c) child benefit (Kindergeld)
4. d) housing benefit (Wohngeld)
Explanation: For permanent employees, social insurance contributions (health, long-term care, pension and unemployment insurance) are deducted directly from their pay. Social assistance, child benefit and housing benefit are payments you receive from the state, not payments you make.
Question 98
Wenn Abgeordnete im Deutschen Bundestag ihre Fraktion wechseln, …
1. a)dürfen sie nicht mehr an den Sitzungen des Parlaments teilnehmen.
2. b)kann die Regierung ihre Mehrheit verlieren.
3. c)muss der Bundespräsident/die Bundespräsidentin zuvor sein/ihr Einverständnis geben.
4. d)dürfen die Wähler/Wählerinnen dieser Abgeordneten noch einmal wählen.
›Show answer
Correct answer: b) kann die Regierung ihre Mehrheit verlieren.
In English
If members of the German Bundestag change their parliamentary group, …
1. a) they may no longer take part in sessions of parliament.
2. b) the government may lose its majority.
3. c) the Federal President must give his or her consent beforehand.
4. d) the voters of these members may vote again.
Explanation: Members of parliament are bound only by their conscience and keep their seats even if they switch groups (Article 38 of the Basic Law). If members of the governing parties move to other groups, the government can lose its majority in the Bundestag.
Question 99
Wer bezahlt in Deutschland die Sozialversicherungen?
1. a)Arbeitgeber / Arbeitgeberinnen und Arbeitnehmer / Arbeitnehmerinnen
2. b)nur Arbeitnehmer / Arbeitnehmerinnen
3. c)alle Staatsangehörigen
4. d)nur Arbeitgeber / Arbeitgeberinnen
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) Arbeitgeber / Arbeitgeberinnen und Arbeitnehmer / Arbeitnehmerinnen
In English
Who pays for social insurance in Germany?
1. a) employers and employees
2. b) only employees
3. c) all citizens
4. d) only employers
Explanation: Social insurance contributions are paid jointly by employees and employers, in most cases roughly half each. Statutory accident insurance is an exception: it is paid by the employer alone.
Question 100
Was gehört nicht zur gesetzlichen Sozialversicherung?
1. a)die Lebensversicherung
2. b)die gesetzliche Rentenversicherung
3. c)die Arbeitslosenversicherung
4. d)die Pflegeversicherung
›Show answer
Correct answer: a) die Lebensversicherung
In English
What is not part of statutory social insurance?
1. a) life insurance (Lebensversicherung)
2. b) statutory pension insurance
3. c) unemployment insurance
4. d) long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung)
Explanation: Life insurance is a voluntary, private insurance. Statutory social insurance has five branches: health, long-term care, pension, unemployment and accident insurance.

Next questions: 101–150

Questions for your federal state

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