How many terms can a U.S. President serve?

A U.S. President can serve a maximum of two terms, as established by the 22nd Amendment to the United States Constitution, which was ratified in 1951. This amendment was a response to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four terms in office, which set a precedent that many felt should not continue. The two-term limit is designed to prevent any individual from holding excessive power over a long period and encourages the rotation of leadership, thus promoting democratic principles and preventing the entrenchment of power. Each term lasts four years, meaning a president can serve up to a total of eight years if they are elected for two consecutive terms.