Reporting Citations on Your N-400 Naturalization Application
The N-400, Application for Naturalization, requires you to disclose all interactions with law enforcement. This often raises a common question: Do I really need to report every traffic ticket and minor citation? The answer is yes. Failing to disclose traffic violations can lead to complications, delays, or even a denial of your application for a lack of “good moral character.”
The N-400 Criminal History Questions
On the N-400 form, USCIS asks a series of detailed questions about your background and potential criminal history. Specifically, on page 14, questions 22 through 26 inquire about arrests, charges, convictions, and citations.
One of the trickiest questions on the entire form is question 23, which asks:
“Have you EVER been arrested, cited, or detained by any law enforcement officer (including any immigration official or any official of the U.S. armed forces) for any reason?”
What Does “Cited” Really Mean?
Many applicants mistakenly believe this question only applies to serious crimes. However, the word “cited” is nestled between “arrested” and “detained” for a reason. This simple word significantly broadens the scope of the question to include minor infractions like:
- Parking tickets
- Speeding tickets
- Non-moving violations
An oversight here can be a major problem. It is crucial to understand that even if you were not arrested or detained, a citation is an official record that must be disclosed.
What If I Forgot a Citation on My Application?
Forgetting a minor citation is a common mistake. If an adjudicating officer at your naturalization interview asks you about an incident you didn’t include on your N-400, do not lie or double down on your mistake. The best course of action is to:
- Be Honest: Simply state that you had forgotten about the incident and apologize for the oversight.
- Be Prepared: The officer will likely ask if you paid the fine and if there were any other charges involved (such as a DUI). Be ready to answer these questions truthfully.
- Stay Calm: The officer will typically write the details of the incident into your N-400 and ask you to sign and acknowledge the change. A single, resolved traffic ticket is unlikely to be an issue in itself.
The Bottom Line: Honesty is Key
The most important takeaway is that honesty is non-negotiable on your naturalization application. USCIS views any undisclosed information as a potential misrepresentation, which directly impacts your “good moral character”—a core requirement for citizenship. Hiding a citation, no matter how small, is a bigger risk than disclosing it. A forgotten parking ticket is a minor issue; concealing it is a major one that could lead to a denial.
Without good moral character, your application to naturalize will be denied, and you may face a five-year waiting period before you can re-apply.
Worried About Your Criminal History? Get Peace of Mind.
Understanding exactly what to disclose can be confusing. If you have a complex history, multiple citations, or are concerned about a past incident, don’t risk your application. Our legal team can review your case, help you prepare a comprehensive N-400, and ensure you are ready for your naturalization interview.
Important Disclaimer: Not Legal Advice
This blog post is for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for legal advice, and you should not rely on it as such. Laws and outcomes depend on the unique facts of your case. For legal advice specific to your situation, please contact our office directly to speak with an attorney.