[custom_adv] First the votes need to be certified in each of the states. That's usually a formality and happens in the next few weeks. [custom_adv] It's written in the US Constitution that the new term of office begins on 20 January at noon. [custom_adv] It happens at a ceremony called the inauguration which takes place in the capital, Washington DC. The new president and vice-president take an oath of office administered by the Supreme Court chief justice. [custom_adv] This is the period between the election result and the start of the new presidential term on 20 January. [custom_adv] The incoming president assembles a group called a transition team who prepare to assume power immediately after inauguration - and the Biden team has already set up a transition website. [custom_adv] They will pick people to serve in the cabinet, discuss policy priorities and prepare to govern.