Green card
U.S. Naturalization Test (2025 Standard) glossary · Civics
Definition
Common name for the Permanent Resident Card.
Green card in plain English
A green card is the ID card that proves you're a "lawful permanent resident" — someone who isn't a U.S. citizen but is allowed to live and work in the United States for good, not just on a temporary visa. Think of it as a season pass instead of a single-day ticket: you can come and go and build a life here. Most people must hold a green card for several years before they're even allowed to apply to become a full citizen. (It got the nickname because the card was, and again is, actually greenish.)
Related U.S. Naturalization Test (2025 Standard) terms
U.S. Naturalization Test (2025 Standard) practice questions · U.S. Naturalization Test (2025 Standard) flashcards · U.S. Naturalization Test (2025 Standard) study guide