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How to Register to Vote

Each state makes its own voting and election rules, including when and how to register. Check with your state or local election office to get the most detailed and up-to-date information for where you live.

Register to Vote

Visit Vote.gov to register to vote. Depending on your state’s voter registration rules, the site can help you:

  • Register online. This is available for 40 states plus the District of Columbia.
  • Download the National Mail Voter Registration Form. You can fill it out onscreen and print the completed form, or print the blank form and fill it out by hand. Remember to sign the form before mailing it to the location listed for your state.
  • Find guidance for states and territories with different registration procedures.

Start Your Voter Registration

Register to Vote in Person

You can register in person with your state or local election office. You may also be able to register at one of these nearby public facilities. Check with the actual location first.

Overseas and Military Voters

The Federal Voting Assistance Program lets you register to vote and request an absentee ballot if you're a

  • U.S. citizen living outside the U.S.
  • Service member stationed overseas
  • Spouse or eligible family member of a service member stationed overseas

Video: Guide for the New Voter

If you're getting ready to vote for the first time, this short video can help. It goes over the basic requirements for voting in the U.S., and explains why it's important to know your state's specific rules for voting.

Voter Registration Deadlines

Every state except North Dakota requires citizens to register if they want to become voters. Depending on your state, the registration deadline could be as much as a month before an election. 

Check the U.S. Vote Foundation to find your state's deadline for registering. You can also check your state or territory's election office for more details. 

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Last Updated: September 14, 2020

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