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Article V

The Amendment Process

Overview

Article V establishes the process for amending the Constitution, providing two methods for proposing amendments and two methods for ratification.

Proposing Amendments

Amendments may be proposed by:

  • Two-thirds vote of both houses of Congress, OR
  • National convention called by Congress at the request of two-thirds of state legislatures

Ratifying Amendments

Amendments must be ratified by:

  • Three-fourths of state legislatures, OR
  • Three-fourths of state ratifying conventions

Congress determines which ratification method will be used.

Limitations

  • No state can be deprived of equal representation in the Senate without its consent
  • Original text protected slave trade until 1808 (no longer relevant)