How many states must approve an amendment for it to be ratified?

The requirement for ratifying an amendment to the U.S. Constitution is that it must be approved by three-fourths of the states. This means that out of the current fifty states, at least thirty-eight must agree to the proposed amendment for it to become law. This process ensures a broad consensus across the country, reflecting the foundational principle that the Constitution is a living document that requires substantial support for any changes to be made.

The requirement for three-fourths supports the stability of the Constitution while allowing for necessary updates and adjustments as society evolves. Choices reflecting lesser proportions would not demonstrate enough agreement among the states, and the requirement for unanimous approval would be impractical in a diverse nation like the United States.