U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentHard
An immigrant is studying the process for amending the U.S. Constitution. After an amendment is proposed, what is the next step for it to be ratified?
- AIt must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures.
- BIt must be signed by the President.
- CIt must be approved by a national referendum.
- DIt must be approved by the Supreme Court.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. It must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures.
Article V of the Constitution outlines two methods for ratification. The most common method, used for all but one amendment, is ratification by three-fourths of the state legislatures.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Presidential signature is not required for constitutional amendments.
- C. A national referendum is not a method for ratifying constitutional amendments in the U.S.
- D. The Supreme Court interprets the Constitution, but does not approve amendments for ratification.
Constitutional Amendment Ratification
The final stage of the amendment process, requiring approval by the states to make a proposed amendment part of the U.S. Constitution.
- Requires 3/4 of state legislatures or state conventions
- Presidential signature is not needed
- Article V outlines the process
Memory trick: Three-fourths of the states 'Ratify' changes to the Constitution.