How many terms can a President serve?

A President of the United States can serve a maximum of two terms, which totals eight years in office. This limit is established by the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1951. The framers of this amendment sought to prevent any individual from holding excessive power through extended presidencies, a concern rooted in historical examples like Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was elected to four terms before the amendment was passed.

This two-term limit ensures a regular renewal of leadership, allowing for democratic rotation in the executive branch of the government. While some Presidents have served less than two full terms due to various circumstances, the formal cap stands at eight years under current law.