Voting & Elections
How to register to vote
Voter registration is required in 49 states before you can cast a ballot. Requirements and deadlines vary — some states allow same-day registration, others require weeks of advance notice.
North Dakota is the only state that does not require voter registration. Every other state has its own rules, deadlines, and ID requirements.
Last reviewed: June 5, 2026
What you will need
- ✓State driver's license or ID number (or last 4 digits of Social Security number)
- ✓Current residential address
Steps
Confirm you are eligible
To register you must be a U.S. citizen, meet your state's age requirement (18 by Election Day in most states; some allow 17-year-olds to register if they will be 18 by Election Day), and be a resident of the address where you are registering.
Check your state's registration deadline
Most states require registration 15–30 days before an election. Some states — including California, Colorado, and Wisconsin — allow same-day registration. Find your state's exact deadline before proceeding.
Register online, by mail, or in person
Most states offer online registration through their Secretary of State or election website. You can also register at the DMV when getting or renewing a driver's license, or at your local election office.
Tip: The federal National Voter Registration Form is accepted in most states and can be submitted by mail.
Confirm your registration
After submitting, check your registration status on your state's election website before the deadline. Processing can take several days.
Update your registration if you move
If you move to a new address — even within the same state — you must update your registration before the next election. Your old registration does not automatically follow you.