Register to Vote!!!

Overview of how to register to vote (applies to every U.S. state and territory)

• Who is eligible: U.S. citizens who meet your state’s age requirement (typically 18 by Election Day) and residency rules.
• Main registration methods: online (where available), by mail using the national form, and in person at local election offices or many motor vehicle agencies.
• Deadlines and rules: each state sets its own registration deadlines, ID rules, and whether party registration is required for primaries; verify your state’s page for exact dates and requirements.

Step‑by‑step instructions you can use for any state

1. Confirm eligibility
   • Be a U.S. citizen, meet your state’s age and residency requirements, and not disqualified by state law (for example, some felony convictions may affect eligibility).
2. Choose a registration method
   • Online: If your state offers online registration, use your state’s official elections website; you’ll typically need a state driver’s license or ID to authenticate.
   • By mail: Download and complete the National Mail Voter Registration Form (accepted in most states) and mail it to the address on the form.
   • In person: Register at your local county or city election office, many DMV offices, or other public assistance agencies (check your state page for approved locations).
3. Complete the registration form
   • Provide full legal name, date of birth, residential address, mailing address (if different), driver’s license or state ID number (if required), and party affiliation if your state requires it for primary elections.
4. Provide ID or proof if required
   • Some states require ID or proof of citizenship for first-time voters who register by mail and have not previously provided ID; check your state rules.
5. Mail or submit the form
   • If mailing, send before your state’s registration deadline and to the address specified by your state or on the national form.
6. Verify your registration
   • After submitting, confirm your registration status and find your polling place using your state’s official election website or the federal portal at Vote.gov.
7. Update registration when you move or change name
   • If you change address, name, or party affiliation, update your registration as soon as possible following your state’s procedures.
8. Know your deadlines
   • Registration cutoffs vary by state and can be weeks before an election or allow same‑day or Election‑Day registration; always verify the deadline on your state’s election site.

Common questions answered for every state

• Can I register online? Many states offer online registration; the federal Vote.gov site lets you pick your state to see whether online registration is available and to access the correct portal.
• What if I don’t have a state ID or driver’s license? You can usually register by mail using the national form; some states accept other identifying information—check your state’s instructions.
• Can I register close to or on Election Day? A few states allow same‑day or Election‑Day registration; most require registration before a fixed deadline—confirm with your state.
• How do I know where to vote? Your registration confirmation will list your polling place, or you can look it up on your state’s election website.

Quick links to get started (state‑by‑state lookup)

• Use the federal portal to select your state and follow the official instructions for registration, deadlines, and contact information for your local election office.
• For general guidance, deadlines, and how to update or cancel registration, consult USA.gov’s voter registration page.

Checklist before you register (print or save)

• Proof of citizenship/ID (if your state requires it); state driver’s license or ID number (if registering online); current residential address; mailing address; date of birth; party choice (if required).
• Deadline date for your state’s next election (look up on your state page).
• Contact info for your local election office to confirm registration or ask questions.

https://vote.gov/register