Governors in the United States typically serve four-year terms, except in Vermont and New Hampshire, where the term is two years
. Term limits for governors vary by state:
- Most states with term limits restrict governors to two consecutive four-year terms, after which they must leave office but can often run again after a break (usually four years)
- Some states impose lifetime limits, meaning once a governor has served the maximum number of terms, they cannot run for governor again (e.g., Arkansas, California, Delaware, Nevada, Oklahoma)
- A few states have no term limits, allowing governors to serve unlimited terms, either consecutive or lifetime. Examples include Illinois, Iowa, Connecticut, Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin
- Virginia is unique in allowing only one consecutive four-year term before a governor must step down
In summary, governors can serve anywhere from one two-year term (Virginia) to unlimited terms depending on the state, with most states limiting service to two consecutive four-year terms. Some states allow non-consecutive terms after a break, and a minority have no term limits at all
