<P> Article V provides two methods for amending the nation 's frame of government . The first method authorizes Congress , `` whenever two - thirds of both houses shall deem it necessary '' ( a two - thirds of those members present -- assuming that a quorum exists at the time that the vote is cast -- and not necessarily a two - thirds vote of the entire membership elected and serving in the two houses of Congress ) , to propose Constitutional amendments . The second method requires Congress , `` on the application of the legislatures of two - thirds of the several states '' ( presently 34 ) , to `` call a convention for proposing amendments '' . </P>
<P> Article V provides two methods for amending the nation 's frame of government . The first method authorizes Congress , `` whenever two - thirds of both houses shall deem it necessary '' ( a two - thirds of those members present -- assuming that a quorum exists at the time that the vote is cast -- and not necessarily a two - thirds vote of the entire membership elected and serving in the two houses of Congress ) , to propose Constitutional amendments . The second method requires Congress , `` on the application of the legislatures of two - thirds of the several states '' ( presently 34 ) , to `` call a convention for proposing amendments '' . </P>
what fraction of congress does it take to propose an amendment ( step 1 of the amendment process )
what fraction of congress does it take to propose an amendment ( step 1 of the amendment process )
two - thirds of both houses
two - thirds of both houses