House of Representatives
Definition
The lower chamber of Congress consisting of 435 members apportioned among the states based on population.
Explanation
The House of Representatives is one of two chambers of Congress and serves as the lower chamber of the legislative branch. The number of representatives each state has is determined by its population, with states having at least one representative. Members serve two-year terms and must be at least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen for at least seven years, and a resident of the state they represent. The House is often called the People's House because representatives serve shorter terms and must run for reelection more frequently, keeping them closely accountable to their constituents. The Speaker of the House, elected by members, is the chamber's presiding officer.
Why this matters for your test
The House of Representatives is a critical part of the legislative branch that appears frequently on the USCIS civics test. You should understand how many representatives there are, how they are apportioned, and their roles in lawmaking.
Source: USCIS 128 Civics Questions (2025)