In the United States military, a general is the most senior general-grade officer; it is the highest achievable commissioned officer rank (or echelon) that may be attained in the United States Armed Forces, with exception of the Navy and Coast Guard, which have the equivalent rank of admiral instead.

The official and formal insignia of "general" is defined by its four stars (commonly silver and in a row).

The total number of active duty general officers is capped at 231 for the Army, 62 for the Marine Corps, 198 for the Air Force, and 162 for the Navy.

[8] For some positions, statute allows the President to waive those requirements for a nominee deemed to serve national interests.

[9] The nominee must be confirmed by the United States Senate before the appointee can take office and assume the rank.

Appointment of general/flag officers (3-star or above) is a temporary promotion lasting only for the duration of the job assignment.

Extensions of the standard tour length can be approved, within statutory limits but these are rare, as they block other officers from being promoted.