Naruto Uzumaki is one of the most iconic characters from the anime, Naruto. He is the protagonist of the series, and one of the things that motivates him throughout the entire series is his ambition to become the Hokage of his village, Konohagakure. Becoming the Hokage is the highest rank in a ninja village, and it means that one becomes a leader and protector of the village. To achieve this goal, Naruto faces various obstacles and challenges, some of which are incredibly difficult.
The answer to when Naruto becomes Hokage ultimately depends on which arc of the series one is referring to. In the original Naruto series, Naruto is on a mission to save his friend Uchiha Sasuke. Of course, Naruto's goal of becoming Hokage is put on hold as he focuses on reviving the Uchiha clan. After several months of training, Naruto is able to master enough powerful techniques, such as the Rasengan, to save Sasuke and stop the Akatsuki organization.
Unfortunately, during his final battle with the Akatsuki leader Pain, Naruto sustained many injuries and was bedridden for the majority of the Fourth Shinobi World War. However, despite his physical limitations, Naruto's ambition and determination to become Hokage drive him to continue fighting for Konoha.
The original Naruto series ends with Naruto becoming the Seventh Hokage of Konoha village. After the war ends, Naruto accepts the position of Hokage from the Yondaime, the Fourth Hokage, who had been honored to serve as Naruto's teacher. The Yondaime is deeply moved that Naruto has the respect of both the villagers of Konoha and the shinobi world. Finally, Naruto is called to the Hokage Tower and stands in front of a giant monument of himself as the Seventh Hokage of Konoha.
The end of the series left many Naruto fans wanting more, as many were left wondering if Naruto could achieve his dream of becoming Hokage in other arcs. Fortunately, the sequel series Naruto: Shippuden begins shortly after the original series and follows Naruto as he works towards becoming Hokage. Although it is never explicitly stated in the series, Naruto becomes the Seventh Hokage in the original series.
In the Shippuden series, the other village elders recognize Naruto's exemplary character and his ambition for becoming the Hokage, and eventually give their approval for Naruto to receive the title. This time around, Naruto is officially appointed by Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage, who acknowledges Naruto's hard work and determination. With the Fire Daimyo and all the elders of Konoha behind him, Naruto is officially named the Seventh Hokage of Konoha village.
At the end of the Naruto: Shippuden series, Naruto is deeply respected by all the shinobi in the Land of Fire as the Hokage. He is a symbol not only of courage, but also of an unyielding determination to protect his village. After all his hard work, Naruto's lifelong dream of becoming Hokage has finally been realized.