text: Candidates for citizenship must 1 ) be 18 or older ; 2 ) have resided in the United States continuously for five years--or three years if married to a U.S. citizen-- ( short absences are OK ) ; 3 ) demonstrate the ability to speak English , and a basic knowledge of American history and government ( click here to see if you pass the test ) ; and 4 ) be of good moral character .
  
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  Candidates for U.S. citizenship must meet several vetting criteria .