Form N-648 is for applicants who seek an exception to the English and/or civics requirements of the naturalization process due to a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that has lasted or is expected to last twelve months or more.

A Form N-648 applicant should submit Form N-648 at the time he or she files Form I-400, Application for Naturalization. Form N-648 applicants are not required to fulfill the English language and civics requirements if the applicant is unable to do so due to physical or mental disabilities.

However, applicants who can meet the English and civics requirements but only with accommodations, should not use Form N-648. These applicants include those needing sign language or extended time for testing. Illiteracy alone is not a valid reason to seek an exception under Form N-648.

Form N-648 must be certified by a licensed medical professional. Before certifying Form N-648, the medical professional must have conducted an examination of the applicant. Form N-648 responses must be indicated in common language, without abbreviations, so that a person without medical training would be able to understand. Only medical doctors, doctor of osteopathy, or clinical psychologists licensed to practice in the United States may complete Form N-648.