What promise do you make when you become a United States citizen?

The promise made when becoming a United States citizen is to obey the laws of the United States. This commitment is central to the role of any citizen, as it establishes the foundation of civic responsibility within a democratic society. By agreeing to follow the laws, citizens contribute to the order and functionality of the government and community.

Obeying the laws is a fundamental aspect of citizenship, as it ensures that citizens respect the rights and freedoms of others while participating in the democratic process. This promise is part of the broader context of civic duties, which also include responsibilities like serving on a jury or paying taxes, though these are not the primary promise of citizenship itself. The other choices, while also important civic responsibilities, do not encapsulate the primary commitment made upon attaining citizenship as effectively as the obligation to obey the laws does.