Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the federal government. What is one power of the federal government?

Why This Matters

The USCIS interviewer asks this question to see if you understand the difference between federal power and state power. The United States has a system called federalism, which means power is divided between the national government and the fifty state governments. Some things only the federal government can do, and this question tests whether you know at least one of those powers.

The federal government handles things that affect the entire nation. For example, only the federal government can print money. Imagine if each state printed its own currency, trade between states would be a mess. Similarly, only the federal government can declare war or make treaties with other countries. These are decisions that affect every American, so they belong to the national government. The federal government can also create an army to defend the whole country.

Understanding federal powers matters because as a citizen, you will be part of this system. You will vote for federal leaders like the President and members of Congress who make these big national decisions. Knowing what they can and cannot do is part of being an informed citizen.

Key Facts

• The federal government can print money, no state is allowed to create its own currency
• Only the federal government can declare war against another country
• The federal government has the power to create and maintain a military (army, navy, air force, etc.)
• The federal government can make treaties, which are formal agreements with other nations
• These powers are listed in the Constitution, mainly in Article I, Section 8

Common Mistakes

• Saying the federal government can "give a driver's license", that is a state power, not a federal power
• Confusing federal powers with state powers like providing police or fire departments
• Thinking the President alone can declare war, the Constitution gives that power to Congress

Study Tip

Think of federal powers as things that affect the whole country at once. Money, war, the army, and treaties with foreign nations all cross state lines. If something involves the entire nation or other countries, it is probably a federal power. Use the phrase "big national decisions" to help you remember.