Last updated on: 5/24/2023 | Author: ProCon.org

How to Register to Vote

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Fill out a Voter Registration Form and follow the instructions for your specific state. You may also find voter registration forms at your local library or U.S. Post Office.

Before you can vote, you typically have to register to vote (except in North Dakota, which does not require voter registration). Each state has a different deadline for voter registration, but in most states, you need to register at least 30 days before Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Contact your state election office to find out more about registration deadlines.

To be eligible for voter registration, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Be 18 years old by the date of the election, and
  • Meet your state’s eligibility requirements for voter registration

You will need to re-register to vote if your address, name, and/or party affiliation has changed since your last registration.

The polling place location will be printed on a Sample Ballot you may receive from the local elections official, or you can click here to contact your state election office about polling place locations. Some states may also have polling place location resources on their Secretary of States’ websites.

Voter ID laws vary by state. You may find more information on whether you need to bring an ID, and which IDs are acceptable, at usa.gov/voter-id.

More information on voter registration is available at vote.gov and usa.gov/voting.