2008 civics test · Question 1 · Principles of American Democracy
What is the supreme law of the land?
Official answer
- the Constitution
What this means
The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. That phrase means no other law can override it. A state law, a federal law, or an action by the president that conflicts with the Constitution can be struck down by the courts.
Written in 1787 and in effect since 1789, it sets up the three branches of government, divides power between the federal government and the states, and, through its amendments, protects individual rights.
When the officer asks this question, the answer they are listening for is simply “the Constitution.” You do not need to add a date or an explanation.
Why this is on the test
The Constitution is the starting point for almost every other civics answer. The branches of government, the Bill of Rights, and the limits on federal power all come from it.
How this question is asked
On the 2008 civics test, the officer asks up to 10 of the 100 questions out loud and you pass by answering 6 correctly. You answer in your own words. There is no multiple choice and nothing to write down for the civics portion.
This question also appears on the 2025 civics test , as question 2.
Related questions
More from Principles of American Democracy.
- 2 What does the Constitution do?
- 3 The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words?
- 4 What is an amendment?
- 5 What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?
- 6 What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment? ★ 65/20 question
- 7 How many amendments does the Constitution have?