Voter registration questions answered: deadlines, requirements & more

Registering to vote is one of the most important steps in making your voice heard, but the process isn’t always straightforward. Deadlines, requirements, and myths about eligibility can keep people from participating. To help, we’ve compiled answers to the most common voter registration questions, so you can get to voting day with confidence.

1. Deadlines & timing

When is the deadline to register to vote?
Voter registration deadlines vary by state. Some require registration weeks before election day, while others allow same-day registration. Check your state’s rules on vote.gov to make sure you do what you need to before the deadline.

Do I need to re-register for every election?
Not usually. Once you’re registered, you stay on the voter rolls unless you move, change your name, or your state removes inactive voters. Always double-check before each election. You can use the ActionButton at the bottom of this post to make sure you’re still registered.

2. Moving & address changes

I just moved. Do I need to update my voter registration?
Yes! If you move to a new state, you must register there. Timelines for this vary, but even moving within the same county often requires updating your address online or by mail.

College students: Should I register at my home or school address?
It’s your choice. Students can register either where they attend school or at their permanent home address. Consider which location makes the most sense for you to vote, both strategically and where you feel most invested in the community.

3. Eligibility & requirements

Can I register to vote without a driver’s license?
Yes. Many states accept other forms of ID, like a Social Security number, or provide options for those without government-issued ID. Requirements vary, so check your state’s guidelines.

Can people with felony convictions register to vote?
Rules differ by state. A select few states permanently disenfranchise felons, but most restore rights directly after or after a certain period following the completion of the sentence. Vote.gov provides state-by-state information.

4. Process & security

How do I know my voter registration worked?
Most states offer online voter registration lookup tools. After registering, use these tools to confirm your name, address, and polling location are correct. The ActionButton below will also provide up-to-date information.

Is my voter registration information private?
Basic voter registration data, such as name and address, can be part of the public record. But sensitive details, such as your driver’s license or Social Security number, are kept confidential.

5. After registering: voting itself

Where do I vote once I’m registered?
Your polling place is assigned based on your registered address. You can confirm your polling location through your state election office’s website.

Can I vote if I’ll be out of town on election day?
Yes. Apply for an absentee ballot or vote early if your state allows. Deadlines for these options vary, so plan ahead to make sure your vote is counted.

Does my vote actually matter?
The short answer is: yes! Elections have consequences. It may sometimes feel like your vote doesn’t matter, but politicians want to keep their positions. If enough of their constituents express a desire, they’ll likely vote that way. 

Additionally, local politicians are more likely to respond to your wishes, as they have fewer constituents’ needs to keep in mind. But all politicians have an interest in keeping those they represent happy with their policies.

Learn more about the most (and least) effective ways to be heard and the do’s and don’ts of emailing your lawmakers.

Ready to take the next step? Make sure you and your supporters are registered in time. With ActionButton, you can embed free voter registration tools directly on your website or campaign page, with different links provided based on registration status, giving your community the easiest path to participate in democracy.

If you're in the U.S., try it out below!