HOW TO VOTE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET READY

Elections happen year-round. Start here to check your registration, update your info, or get ready to vote where you live. You can also find key deadlines, voting options, and the information you need before you cast your ballot.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Am I registered to vote?

It’s a good idea to check your voter registration before every election, especially if you’ve moved or changed your name. A quick check can confirm that your information is up to date  and give you time to fix anything before your state’s voter registration deadline.

How do I register to vote?

Ready to register to vote? Use the voter registration tool above to get started. Registration rules and deadlines vary by state, and depending on where you live, you may be able to register online, by mail, or in person. You can also use the tool to update your registration if you’ve moved or changed your name.

WHAT’s the difference between mail-in voting and absentee voting?

The terms mail-in voting and absentee voting often describe the same basic process: receiving a ballot that you can complete outside a polling place. What your state calls it, and how you get your ballot, varies. Some states automatically mail ballots to all registered voters, while others require you to request an absentee or mail-in ballot. Depending on the state, that request may be for a single election, for all elections in a year, or you may be able to join a permanent absentee or mail ballot list. Some states also require a qualifying reason to vote absentee. And despite the name, you may not have to return your ballot through the mail. Many states also allow ballots to be returned at a drop box or election office.

How do I vote by mail or request and absentee ballot?

Vote-by-mail and absentee voting rules vary by state. Some states automatically mail ballots to registered voters, others allow any voter to request one, and some require an eligible reason. If you plan to vote by mail, use our tool above to check your state’s rules and deadlines and request your ballot early if needed. Mail-in ballot deadlines also vary by state, so make sure you know when your completed ballot must be returned or received for it to count. College students living away from home, travelers, military voters, and voters living overseas may also have absentee voting options.

Is Mail-in voting safe?

Mail-in voting uses multiple safeguards to make sure eligible voters’ ballots are counted correctly. The exact process varies by state, but election officials may verify signatures or other identifying information, track when ballots are issued and returned, maintain chain-of-custody procedures, and reconcile ballots before results are certified. Many states also offer tracking online or by text, allowing voters to check when their ballot was sent, received, and accepted. 

When can I vote early?

Many states offer in-person voting before Election Day, but early voting dates, hours, and locations vary depending on where you live. Early voting may take place at your local election office or at designated voting locations. Check the voting tool above for early voting information in your state.

Where is my polling place?

Your polling place is based on where you’re registered to vote and may change from one election to another, so it’s worth checking before you head out to vote on Election Day. Use the voting tool above to find your polling place, check voting hours, and get the information you need before Election Day. Official guidance also recommends confirming your voting location and hours with your state or local election office. 

What is on my ballot?

What’s on your ballot depends on where you live. Your ballot may include federal, state, and local races as well as judges, school boards, and ballot measures. The voting tool above can show you what’s on your ballot, and you can also explore our Voting Guide for more information about races across the country. Many election offices publish sample ballots before an election.

Who should I vote for? 

Who you vote for is up to you, and your ballot is private. But you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Check out our Voting Guide to find Common Sense Candidates in races across the country and get the information you need before you vote.