Ever wondered how to become president of the United States? It’s not as simple as giving great speeches or wearing a sharp suit. From meeting the constitutional requirements (like age and residency) to securing your party’s nomination and conquering the presidential election, the road to the White House is long—and often unpredictable. 

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what it takes to go from citizen to Commander in Chief. Whether you’re just curious about the process or seriously eyeing 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, these 10 steps (plus 5 requirements) will walk you through how to run for president—and maybe even win. 

Step 1: Be Born in the USA 

One of the requirements to become president (per the U.S. Constitution) states that the president must be a natural born citizen of the United States. This is the one and only reason why Austrian-born actor and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger can’t run for president. (Sorry, Arnold fans.) 

Step 2: Turn 35  

Your next step is to wait about 35 years. The Founding Fathers settled on this age requirement at the 1787 Constitutional Convention, believing it would ensure a leader of sound judgment, maturity, and wisdom.  

Step 3: Live in the United States for 14 Years 

The president is the only federal officer required to have lived in the United States for any amount of time. According to the Founding Fathers, 14 years is enough time for people to understand a presidential candidate and for that candidate, in turn, to appreciate the country’s values.  

Step 4: Set the Foundation  

You have decades to make a name for yourself in politics—plenty of time. Most candidates have advanced degrees, often in law or business. You can’t go wrong pursuing a degree in history, sociology, or political science.  

Step 5: Choose Your Party  

There are over 53 “third parties” in the U.S., but the country operates on a two-party system. If you want any shot at becoming president, you’ll likely have to register as a Democrat or Republican. Given today’s political polarization, choosing a party that aligns with your interests should be pretty straightforward.  

Step 6: Start a Career in Politics 

By now, you’ve earned degrees and accolades and are ready to pursue a career in politics. Though it’s not a requirement, running for and winning a race for mayor, governor, or senator in your state will bring you much-needed experience and exposure.  

A politician gives a speech on the campaign trail, surrounded by microphones. 

Step 7: Hit the Campaign Trail  

Once you’re in the political spotlight, it’s time to announce your run for president. After registering with the Federal Election Commission in the spring a year before the presidential election, you’ll hit the campaign trail, rallying support around the country to win the favor of your political party.  

Step 8: Secure the Nomination 

Six to nine months before the election, primary voters in certain states choose their preferred candidate. Other states hold caucuses where a political party gathers and votes for a preferred candidate. Votes at primaries and caucuses award candidates with delegates, who represent their state at national conventions.  

Get the majority of your party’s delegates and at the end of the national convention, your party will announce that you are the final presidential nominee. Then you’ll take the stage, give a rousing speech, and announce your running mate.  

Step 9: Win the Debates 

With the election months away, you and your opponent will go head-to-head in front of tens of millions of viewers. All eyes will be on you as you share your vision for the future of the nation. Stay calm, authentic, and above all, presidential.  

Step 10: Win the Presidential Election 

After years of planning, sacrifices, and nonstop campaigning, it all comes down to Election Day, held every four years on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. All you can do now is cast your vote and wait for the results. The rest is up to the voters … technically.   

When people cast their vote, they’re actually voting for electors from each state. Each state has its own group of electors, and whichever candidate wins a state’s popular vote wins all that state’s electors. The Electoral College consists of 538 electors, but you’ll need a majority (270) to win. That’s the magic number that’ll make you the leader of the free world.  

Congratulations, Mister or Madam President  

So, will you keep the drapes or give the Oval Office a complete makeover? The road to the White House was long and daunting, but here you are. Now, every choice you make will impact the nation’s future—at least, until your successor is elected. 

FAQ About Running for President 

You’ve got the steps down, but if you’re curious about the finer details, here are some of the most common questions people ask about running for president: 

  • What are the five requirements to be president? 
    You must be a natural-born U.S. citizen, at least 35 years old, and have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years. You’ll also need leadership experience and a strong campaign platform. 
  • How hard is it to become president? 
    Extremely. The odds are about 1 in 10 million. But with the right education, experience, and campaign strategy, it’s not impossible. 
  • How do you run for president? 
    To run, you must file a statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission, fundraise, and campaign nationwide to win your party’s nomination. 

Where to Begin? 

Every U.S. president started exactly where you are now: reading a listicle on how to become president in 10 easy steps.  

Okay, maybe not. But one thing’s for sure: Despite the unique paths that brought them to the presidency, they all prepared for the role—even if they didn’t have this convenient guide. If you want to be president, you’ll have to set yourself up for success, and you can start by earning an online degree from The University of Texas Permian Basin.  

UT Permian Basin offers flexible online undergraduate and graduate programs that will look good on your resume and can set you up for a career in politics. Here are a few options we think are very presidential: 

We can’t promise that you’ll become the next U.S. president, but we can promise that our online programs deliver an exceptional education that will help you in your pursuit of a fulfilling and worthwhile career, whether it’s in politics or another path.  

Sources: 
https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/our-government/the-executive-branch
https://www.npr.org/2024/07/11/nx-s1-4914137/president-age-constitution
https://www.usa.gov/presidential-election-process
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-President-of-the-United-States
https://www.history.com/news/what-are-the-qualifications-to-be-president-of-the-united-states