The first Tuesday in November, which falls on November 5 this year, is US election day. Voting is crucial since it will determine who will be the next US president. You must ensure that you register in time to accomplish this.
It’s easy to register to vote. There are multiple methods for both in-person and online voter registration. If you are unable to cast a ballot on election day, you can alternatively register to cast an absentee ballot.
What documents do you need to register to vote?
In most cases, you will need either a driver’s license or a state ID to register to vote. If you do not have either of these, you may be able to provide other types of documentation, including a bank statement or utility bill. But the required documents you need to register vary by state.
How to register to vote?
Register through vote.gov
Visit vote.gov to begin the voter registration process. Select your state or territory. Depending on its rules, you will find instructions on how to register:
- Online
- By mail
- In person at your local election office
Other ways to register to vote
- Download the National Mail Voter Registration Form. You can fill it out onscreen and print the completed form. Or you can 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.
- Check with local government offices to see if you can register in person.
- Find your department of motor vehicles office.
- Locate a nearby armed forces recruitment center.
- Contact state and county public assistance offices such as SNAP/food stamps.
Abroad and military voters
The Federal Voting Assistance Program lets you register to vote and request an absentee ballot if you are a:
- U.S. citizen living outside the U.S.
- Service member stationed abroad
- Spouse or eligible family member of a service member stationed abroad
Who can vote?
To vote in the upcoming presidential election you must:
- Be a US citizen
- Meet your state’s requirements
- Be 18 years old by election day
If you are an overseas US citizen who used to live in the US, you are able to send an absentee vote.