• If you’ve moved since the last election, even within your current election jurisdiction, you will need to update your registration, and determine where you will vote.  If you moved outside of your previous jurisdiction, you will need to reregister before the deadline in your state.
• Although state registration deadlines vary, most states require that you register no later than the first week of October.  Check with your state for the deadline.
• To register to vote, you can start by printing out a voter registration form for your state at one of the web sites listed below.  (Residents of North Dakota, Wyoming and some areas of New Hampshire are not permitted to use these forms.)  You can also contact your local election office by checking your phonebook for your local board of elections.
• If you have trouble writing or know someone who does, state agencies are required to provide assistance in filling out the voter registration form if asked.
• After you mail or hand in your registration application, you should get a voter registration card or notice in the mail.  Hold on to that notice. Check it for accuracy, and call your local board of elections if it needs correcting.  Remember to take your voter registration card and photo identification along with you to vote. 
• If you or someone you know is homebound, and cannot get to the polls to vote, contact your local election officials for information on absentee voting.  You may need to request an absentee ballot at least 30 days prior to the election, but check with your state for the exact deadline.

Learn about three handy voter registration sites.

August 2006