Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A term limit refers to a legal restriction on the number of times an individual can hold a particular office or position. In the context of government, it specifies the maximum duration or number of terms that someone can serve in a particular role.
Related terms
Presidential term limits: These are restrictions placed specifically on the number of terms that a president can serve in office.
Legislative term limits: These refer to limitations set on how long an individual can serve as a member of the legislative branch, such as Congress.
Executive term limits: This encompasses limitations not only on presidential terms but also on other executive positions, such as governors or mayors.