Most states require you to sign up to vote in elections, a process called voter registration. The voter registration rules vary by state. In some states, you can pre-register, meaning you register to vote at 16 or 17 years old, but you cannot vote until you turn 18. If you will turn 18 by Election Day, you should register to vote ASAP.
What address should I use for my voter registration?
You should register to vote where you currently live, or where you reside for the majority of the year.
If you have moved recently, you may need to re-register to vote in your new location.
If you are a college student, you have the option to register at your residence on campus or back at home.
When should I register?
Voter registration deadlines vary by state. In some, you may register any time up to and including on Election Day, while in others, you must register well ahead of that date. It’s important to be aware of the deadlines in your state to ensure you’re registered in time to vote in this election. The best time to register is NOW!
I am already registered to vote – do I need anything?
You should double-check your voter registration status ahead of your state’s registration deadline to make sure all of the information is accurate. If you have moved or changed your name since the last time you registered to vote or if you want to change your political party, you should update your registration.
Depending on where you live, you may have different options! There are three different ways to register to vote – in person, by mail, or online. Each way to register has different rules and requirements, and deadlines may vary by type. For example, if you missed the online or by- mail registration deadline, in some states you may be able to register in person at your local election office or even at the polls! Not every state has online voter registration, so make sure you check the voter registration rules in your state.
Do I need an ID to register?
When you register to vote or vote for the first time in a federal election (Presidential or Congressional elections) in your state, you must prove who you are. This is required by Federal law.
These requirements are the same whether you register to vote in person, online, or by mail.
REGISTERING TO VOTE ONLINE
If your state allows online voter registration, it may require an in-state driver’s license or state ID card to use the service. If you don’t have either, you can usually register in person or by mail.
REGISTERING TO VOTE IN PERSON OR BY MAIL
You must provide your driver’s license number or state ID number if you have one.
If you do not have either of these IDs, you must provide the last four digits of your Social Security number if you have one.
If you do not have a Social Security number, then leave that space blank on your registration form.