NCFE Civics Practice Exam

These questions are part of the practice quiz. Start practicing

• What does "compounding frequency" refer to in the context of interest?
• Which document outlines the structure of the U.S. government and its relationship to the states?
• Which federal entity is responsible for foreign intelligence and national security reports?
• Which department is responsible for managing US foreign relations?
• In which of the following scenarios could "due process" be violated?
• What is the primary purpose of the 14th Amendment?
• Which level of government would solely fund a firing range on an army base?
• What is the most common use of an exit poll?
• What determines where voters go to cast their ballots?
• In what way does the Judicial Branch check the powers of the Executive Branch?
• According to the 14th amendment, who is defined as a citizen?
• Who were the two key figures that formulated the two-party system in the US?
• What should citizens do to participate in their community?
• What is a law?
• What is the primary function of a bank?
• What is the principle of Popular Sovereignty primarily associated with?
• The Department of Defense handles which aspect of national security?
• Which term describes a false spoken statement that damages someone's reputation?
• What are sanctions?
• Which branch of government is responsible for making laws?
• What cycle describes the economic fluctuations over time?
• What is a key function of laws in a civilized society?
• Investors nearing retirement typically shift their investment portfolios to include which type of risk?
• Which of the following is a duty of a citizen?
• Which legal principle was established by Plessy v. Ferguson that supported segregation?
• Should you provide your Social Security number for employment records?
• What is the main purpose of committees in Congress?
• What is the routing number on a check used for?
• Which two political parties were the first in American history?
• During which phase of the business cycle is unemployment a notable concern?
• What do State Agencies and Departments do?
• What is the collective group of the President's closest advisors, consisting of the secretaries of the executive departments, called?
• Which branch of government is primarily responsible for creating laws?
• What is the focus of civics as a subject?
• Participating in elections is an example of which citizen responsibility?
• How does Congress efficiently carry out its lawmaking duties?
• What is the relationship between the Bill of Rights and anti-federalists' concerns?
• What power does the Judicial Branch hold over the Executive Branch?
• What is the primary source of revenue for state governments?
• According to the 5th amendment, under what circumstances can the government detain a citizen without formal charges?
• Which companies are often considered legal monopolies?
• What does a dividend represent for investors?
• What is the primary function of voting in a democracy?
• What does an amendment represent in a legal document?
• What does the Consumer Price Index measure?
• In what context are sanctions typically applied?
• What is the relationship between federal and state laws under the Supremacy Clause?
• In what type of government do people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf?
• What role do committees play in the legislative process?
• What similarity exists between the First Amendment and Article 1, Section 14 of the North Carolina Bill of Rights?
• What is the process of electing the President of the United States referred to as?
• What is an organized group of individuals sharing the same ideas and goals to influence public policy called?
• Where do most of the American public typically align on the political spectrum?
• What is the primary purpose of consumer protection laws?
• In the context of elections, what happens after the General Election?
• Which concept describes the economic phenomena when fewer jobs and new businesses are created?
• Which court is directly below the Supreme Court in the federal court hierarchy?
• What legal principle is associated with being tried twice for the same crime?
• What does "separate but equal" refer to?
• What is the primary purpose of a third party within a two-party system?
• Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of a citizen?
• What are the qualifications to become President of the US?
• Who has the authority to appoint members of the Cabinet?
• What does a Home Owners Insurance policy typically cover?
• According to financial practices, what does a low credit score suggest?
• How can public hearings and town meetings best be summarized?
• How could a third party affect the outcome of an election in a two-party system?
• Which of the following best describes an embargo's primary purpose?
• A teenage driver typically has insurance rates that are higher or lower compared to an experienced adult driver?
• What term describes the sharing of power between local, state, and national governments in the United States?
• Which of the following is NOT considered a responsibility of citizens?
• In which situations is it necessary to provide your Social Security number?
• What defines a treaty?
• What effect do maxed-out credit cards likely have on your credit score?
• Which amendment protects individuals against self-incrimination and ensures due process?
• What factors are included in the "equal protection" clause?
• What might receiving strange notifications related to your bank accounts indicate?
• What is the primary function of labor unions?
• During which conflict was the 26th amendment added to the Constitution?
• Wall Street primarily refers to which of the following?
• What does "standard of living" refer to?
• Who is the official leader of the US Senate?
• What type of tax is primarily used by local governments?
• As a general rule, which factor leads to higher interest earnings in savings accounts?
• What does the term 'scarcity' refer to in economics?
• Who was the first President of the United States and served as the Commander in Chief of the Continental Army?
• What are groups of Congress members assigned to specific issues or bills called?
• Which political ideology is associated with greater government involvement in the economy?
• Which term represents the highest point in a business cycle when economic activity peaks?
• Which amendment provides citizenship to anyone born or naturalized in the U.S.?
• What does collective bargaining reflect in the workforce?
• What power was lacking in Congress under the Articles of Confederation?
• What do you call a party's stance on a specific issue?
• Increasing bank reserve requirements typically results in what effect on loans?
• What is considered libel?
• What factor will maximize the interest earned on a savings or investment account?
• Why did the anti-federalists oppose the Constitution?
• What right is guaranteed by the 6th Amendment?
• What is the lowest point in the business cycle referred to?
• What type of government is characterized by complete control by one person or regime?
• What is required to bring a filibuster to an end in Congress?
• What does the trend line indicate in the business cycle?
• During which period was the Civil Rights Movement most significant?
• What does the prime interest rate affect?
• How many free credit reports are individuals entitled to each year?
• What is considered foreign aid?
• What clause asserts that the U.S. Constitution and federal laws are the supreme laws of the land?
• What economic system is aimed at strengthening a national economy through colonies?
• In federalism, what does the term "shared power" refer to?
• What was a significant effect of "Common Sense" on American colonists?
• What is the primary function of the Executive Branch of the government?
• Which of the following is not a component of the 1st Amendment's freedoms?
• What were two major problems under the Articles of Confederation?
• During which phase of the business cycle is inflation a significant concern?
• What do credit scores indicate about individuals?
• Who serves as the head of a state in the same way the President serves as head of the country?
• Which of the following actions is NOT recommended for maintaining a good credit score?
• What is the term for actions that citizens should do?
• How did Brown v. Board of Education affect the interpretation of the 14th Amendment?
• What does the 4th Amendment primarily protect?
• What type of risk investments are generally recommended for younger investors?
• What is the role of a lobbyist?
• What principle is upheld by the concept of "equal protection under the law"?
• If a county designates land solely for business use, what is this process called?
• What is one way to acquire citizenship in the U.S.?
• Which of the following best demonstrates the concept of scarcity?
• What defines a government ruled by a hereditary ruler?
• What is the minimum age requirement for a US Senator?
• What is slander?
• What method do labor unions commonly use to confront employers?
• What is the primary goal of a phishing scam?
• Which amendment to the Constitution addresses the reserved powers of the states?
• The USA Patriot Act enhances the ability of security services to prevent terrorism, which branch of government is responsible for this?
• What do federal laws supersede in the hierarchy of laws?
• Which of the following best defines an entrepreneur?
• If a store alerts you to a data breach, what should be your immediate reaction?
• What is the typical viewpoint of a moderate voter on the political spectrum?
• What is defined as a legally recognized member of a country?
• Which of the following is NOT considered a primary function of the legislative branch?
• Who becomes the acting Governor if the North Carolina Governor cannot fulfill their duties?
• What is the impact of lowering interest rates on borrowing?
• What did the slogan "No taxation without representation" signify for the colonists?
• What does the 14th Amendment ensure for all citizens?
• What is an embargo?
• What effect does promptly paying off a $400 charge on a credit card with a $2,000 limit have on your credit score?
• During which phase of the business cycle does unemployment begin to rise and fewer new businesses start?
• What is considered a good credit score within the 300 to 800 range?
• In a business cycle, what happens immediately after the peak phase?
• What ensures an orderly community according to social contract theory?
• A monopoly exists when:
• What is the main purpose of the 26th amendment?
• Loose monetary policy is characterized by what conditions?
• What is the term for the general rise in the cost of all goods and services?
• What does the Supremacy Clause of the US Constitution state?
• What does the legislative process involve?
• What does a favorable balance of trade indicate?
• Which term best describes the organized effort to gain support for a party's candidates?
• Which retirement plan is known for providing tax advantages?
• What are the two major US political parties today?
• Does inquiring about a credit card charge affect your credit score?
• What is the term for giving each person the same exact legal process when being arrested and charged with a crime?
• What is referred to as the total amount of goods and services produced in a nation in a year?
• What are the three branches of the U.S. Government?
• Which action should you take if you receive a suspicious text message asking for personal information?
• When the President sends troops into a foreign country to combat terrorism, he is acting in which role?
• Which amendment asserts the right to a jury trial in criminal cases?
• What landmark case established the principle of Judicial Review?
• What are the two key components for a company to successfully sell stock?
• In which court are appeals primarily heard?
• The separation of powers refers to:
• Which document serves as the foundation for the U.S. federal government?
• Which amendment guarantees the freedom of expression through various forms such as religion and speech?
• What is an effective strategy for protecting yourself against online identity theft?
• What is contained on a ballot during elections?
• Which group is typically targeted during a political candidate's canvassing campaign?
• What role does the governor play within state governance?
• Which type of investment is classified as moderate in risk?
• What action is expected of citizens to stay informed about local issues?
• Which amendment provides citizenship to anyone born or naturalized in the U.S.?
• What is a key characteristic of a non-profit organization?
• What economic condition is characterized by increased spending, new business starts, and lower unemployment?
• What does "equal protection" under the law imply?
• At what age can an individual serve in the US House of Representatives?
• What defines an oligopoly?
• In which type of election do party voters select their preferred candidate to compete in the General Election?
• Which statement best describes the Articles of Confederation?
• Which amendment is frequently cited in arguments for gay marriage?
• What is the primary feature of Communism?
• What is fiscal policy primarily concerned with?
• What might be a warning sign of identity theft?
• Which level of government would likely resolve a conflict over a zoning law?
• What is the term used when a Senator speaks for an extended time to avoid voting on a bill?
• Which level of federal courts is the only one that uses juries?
• What economic system involves government sharing control of major industries with citizens?
• What powers are specifically given only to the state government in the Constitution?
• Which of the following is a duty of a citizen?
• Which of the following is NOT typically a goal of labor unions?
• What do fiscal policies primarily influence within an economy?
• How do laws influence media practices?
• Which method of protecting against loss applies to both Renter's Insurance and Home Owners Insurance?
• What term describes a prolonged decline in the economy lasting more than six months?
• What defines an immigrant in the context of the United States?
• What is referred to as an economic depression?
• What is one reason the U.S. has a two-party system?
• If you receive an email from an unknown source about a person you know, what should you do?
• Citizens should respect property to:
• What are checks and balances?
• Once a bill is passed to the President, what action can he take besides signing it?
• Which of the following is a requirement for naturalization in the U.S.?
• What term refers to how the Executive Branch handles the nation's relationships with other countries?
• Compounding returns allow you to earn additional money by doing what with your earnings?
• What is one major consequence of having a low credit score?
• What does a successful Primary Election signify for a candidate?
• If the President is unable to fulfill their duties, who assumes the role?
• Under the Supremacy Clause, when there is a conflict between state and national law, which law prevails?
• What was the British law that required colonists to house British soldiers in their homes?
• Which case established the principle of judicial review?
• Who has the authority to present a bill to Congress?
• What is typically the outcome of a general election?
• What was the significance of the case Marbury v. Madison?
• What does the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) protect consumers from?
• What best describes a nonprofit organization?
• Which principle is reinforced by the Brown v. Board of Education decision?
• What is the primary source of revenue for local governments?
• What must be obtained for a lawful search and seizure according to the 4th Amendment?
• What is the primary function of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)?
• Trade limitations can include which of the following?
• In a democracy, who holds political authority?
• What is the primary purpose of the Judicial Branch?
• What is the term for a monetary policy that encourages consumers to spend money?
• What is the purpose of a primary election?
• Which group did John Adams and Samuel Adams form to advocate for independence during the colonial period?
• Under an authoritarian government, what is typically restricted?
• Which of the following is an example of an unsecured network?
• Which American founding document argues that a government that does not protect your rights loses the right to rule?
• Which amendment is known for defining U.S. citizenship?
• What issue led to the formation of the first two political parties in the U.S.?
• How do the veto powers of the North Carolina Governor compare to those of the US President?
• What constitutes a white-collar crime?
• What term describes a court's authority to hear and decide certain types of cases?
• What does it mean to invest your money?
• Why is having a good credit score important?
• Why are laws necessary in a society?
• What might a favorable balance of trade suggest about a country's economy?
• What is the importance of compromise in the legislative process?
• In a closed primary, who is allowed to vote?
• What is generally true about a credit union compared to a traditional bank?
• Which house of Congress primarily deals with foreign affairs?
• Which amendment is considered the most important for civil rights due to its Equal Protection Clause?
• What was the Civil Rights Movement primarily focused on?
• Which of the following describes a responsibility of the Sheriff?
• What does a high credit score indicate about an individual?
• How do media outlets generally influence legislation?
• What was the outcome of Brown v. Board of Education?
• What is the best method for disposing of old financial documents?
• In terms of government, what does the term 'rule by the people' imply?
• What principle was established by the case Plessy v. Ferguson?
• What type of account allows for easy deposit and withdrawal of money?
• What is the underlying purpose of checks and balances in government?
• Which types of insurance can help protect the possessions inside your home?
• Which levels of government are mentioned?
• What is libel?
• What is the role of Local Agencies?
• What is the primary purpose of a credit score?
• What is the process of determining the outcome of an election called?
• Which federal courts have the ability to use a jury?
• What was the Stamp Act primarily about?
• What is the definition of democracy?
• What does the government provide in exchange for citizens giving up some of their rights?
• Which of the following describes the role of the Senate regarding Presidential appointments?
• What is federalism?
• How does the 5th Amendment protect accused persons?
• Which institution is responsible for monetary policy in the United States?
• What was the significance of the Brown v. Board of Education ruling?
• Which type of powers are given to Congress but denied to state and local governments?
• What is judicial review?
• What is the practice called when a political candidate meets voters door to door?
• What is a party's general statement of beliefs known as?
• Where do Liberals/Democrats typically fall on the political spectrum?
• The North Carolina Constitution is most similar to which document?
• What economic phase is characterized by high unemployment and fewest new business startups?
• What is "Common Sense" in the context of the American Revolution?
• What analogy is used to describe a Primary Election?
• How long does a US Senator serve in office?
• How will paying your cell phone bill late affect your credit score?
• Why do insurance companies charge higher rates for teenage drivers?
• How does Congress efficiently carry out its law-making duties?
• What should you do if you notice unauthorized changes in your bank accounts?
• Which of the following reflects the range of credit scores?
• What is the primary function of the Department of State?
• What is the absence of any government or laws called?
• Identifying characteristics of civil rights includes:
• What is a polling place?
• Which branch of government has the power to create laws?
• What was the first elected representative democracy in the American colonies?
• What term describes a voting district?
• Which group advises the President on matters of national security?
• How does a credit union typically differ from a bank?
• Which is NOT a secure method of transferring sensitive information online?
• Civil rights are best characterized as:
• How can insurance financially assist you?
• What happens during a tight monetary policy?
• What term refers to laws designed to maintain separate facilities for different races?
• What does an exit poll measure?
• What type of investment is considered to have the highest risk?
• According to John Locke, what is the social contract?
• What clause in Article VI of the U.S. Constitution establishes that federal laws are the highest laws of the land?
• What is the highest level of the federal court system?
• What are the qualifications to be eligible to vote in the US?
• Who is the primary person responsible for enforcing laws at the state level?
• In a two-party system, there is always a majority and a ____?
• Which system allows individuals to choose any party primary to vote in?
• Which space best completes the statement: The USA Patriot Act includes the establishment of a __________ to enhance domestic security?
• Which of the following best describes mercantilism?
• What does the Federal Reserve use to regulate the economy under monetary policy?
• Which Article of the Constitution addresses the amendment process?
• On the political spectrum, which side do Conservatives/Republicans align with?
• Why is compromise necessary in a multi-party system?
• What is a primary reason a company would sell stock?
• Which of the following powers can both state and federal governments exercise?
• Which of the following can limit free speech?
• What is the primary role of the Legislative Branch?
• Which amendment grants voting rights to all men, specifically highlighting black men?
• What type of election is held in November to determine who will hold an office?
• Which of the following is an example of a concurrent power?
• Which election allows voters to choose candidates to represent their party in the upcoming General Election?
• What type of assistance may be provided as foreign aid?
• How frequently should individuals check their credit report?
• In which type of court are cases dealing with contracts and family disputes heard?
• What significant change did the 19th Amendment bring about?
• According to the 8th Amendment, which of the following is prohibited?
• What entity has the power to approve Presidential appointments to the Supreme Court?
• Which term refers to the process of redrawing district boundaries to benefit a political party?
• What is a trust in the context of business?
• What distinguishes an open primary from a closed primary?
• What is one key aspect of media laws?
• What term is used to describe a non-citizen living in the U.S. legally?
• What is the term for voting exclusively for candidates from one political party on a ballot?
• What does Federalism refer to in the context of government?
• What are actions required of citizens called?