How many votes are needed to pass a motion under Robert's Rules?

Short answer

Most motions pass by a majority vote. That means more "yes" votes than "no" votes among the members who actually vote. Some motions need a two-thirds vote, meaning at least twice as many "yes" votes as "no" votes. Members who abstain (choose not to vote) are not counted at all (RONR §44).

What to do

1. Make sure you have a quorum. A quorum is the minimum number of members who must be present to do business. Without one, a vote isn't valid, no matter how it comes out (RONR §40).
2. Know which threshold applies. A majority is enough for most main motions, amendments, and motions to refer or postpone (RONR §44). A two-thirds vote is needed for motions that cut off or limit members' rights. These include:
   • Ending debate, often called "calling the question" (RONR §16)
   • Limiting or extending debate (RONR §15)
   • Suspending the rules (RONR §25)
   • Objecting to the consideration of a question (RONR §26)
   • Closing nominations (RONR §31)
   • Rescinding an earlier decision without advance notice (RONR §35)
   • Amending bylaws, which usually also requires notice (RONR §57)
3. Count only the yes and no votes. Ignore abstentions and blank ballots. If 10 members are present, 4 vote yes, 3 vote no, and 3 abstain, the motion passes 4 to 3.
4. Treat a tie as a loss. A tie is not a majority, so the motion fails (RONR §44).
5. Know when the chair votes. In a larger meeting, the chair usually votes only when the vote is by ballot or when the chair's vote would change the result, such as breaking or making a tie. In a small board of about a dozen members or fewer, the chair may vote like everyone else (RONR §44, §49).
6. Use a clear voting method. A voice vote is fine for most votes. For a two-thirds vote, take a rising vote or a show of hands so you can see the result. Any member can ask for a standing vote if a voice vote is unclear (RONR §29, §45).
7. Skip the vote when no one objects. For routine matters, the chair can ask for "unanimous consent." If no one objects, the matter is approved without a formal vote (RONR §4).

What the chair says

For a majority vote:

The question is on the motion to [state the motion]. All those in favor, say "aye." Those opposed, say "no." The ayes have it, and the motion is adopted.

For a two-thirds vote:

This motion requires a two-thirds vote. Those in favor, please rise. Be seated. Those opposed, please rise. Be seated. There are two-thirds in the affirmative, and the motion is adopted.

For a tie:

The vote is 6 in favor and 6 opposed. The motion is not adopted, so it fails.

Common mistakes

• Counting abstentions as "no" votes. Under Robert's Rules, a majority is measured against votes cast, not against everyone in the room. Rules like "a majority of members present" count abstentions as if they were "no." That only applies if your bylaws say so (RONR §44).
• Thinking the chair breaks every tie. A tie simply defeats the motion. The chair may vote to break it, but doesn't have to.
• Using a voice vote for two-thirds. It's hard to hear two-thirds. Take a rising vote or a counted vote instead.

When your own rules say otherwise

Your bylaws, charter, or special rules of order can set a different threshold, and they win over Robert's Rules (RONR §2). Look for phrases like "majority of the entire membership," "majority of members present," or a set number of votes for certain actions such as spending money, electing officers, or amending bylaws. City councils, school boards, and other public bodies often have state laws or charters that require a fixed number of votes or a roll-call vote on certain items. Check those first, and when in doubt, ask your organization's attorney.