I stuffed 4 adults into a room at the Tel Aviv Renaissance once...wouldn't ever recommend it, was terrified most of the time of getting caught and the rooms were big enough for two AT BEST.
Outside of the US, as other posters have noted, its based on a variety of factors. Many places in Europe don't even offer 2 double beds! That being said...with status I've been able to get around the 2-person rule with some luck (upgrades to suites with a cot brought in for free!) or just knowing if the hotel is making the policy based on fire code or for more...flexible reasons.
Moral of the story...it really depends on the property you're looking at booking!