what are the two methods in article 5 of proposing constitutional amendments
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 '' .