Persons eligible to vote in local, state, or federal elections may register to do so at any time of the year.
It is very important to exercise this right because it can influence the future of communities with issues related to education, health, among others.
In California, so far, more than eight in ten eligible Californians are registered to vote, according to the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC).
Here’s what you need to know about registering to vote if you’ve just moved to the state or are a first-time voter.
What are the requirements to register as a voter?
- be a US citizen
- You can register if you are at least 17 years and 10 months old. However, you must be 18 years of age or older on Election Day.
- Not currently serving a sentence in any federal or state prison for any felony.
Can I enroll online?
To register to vote online, you will need a driver’s license or ID card, the last four digits of your social security number, and your date of birth.
you can sign up by clicking here.
How do I sign up by mail?
You can register by mail by downloading the National Mail Voter Registration Form. You must complete it by hand, following the California-specific instructions on page 4 of the form, and mail it back.
You can download the form in Spanish by clicking here.
If you choose to register to vote by mail, there is a possibility that you will have to show additional identification when you appear at the polls. Proof of ID can be a valid photo ID or a current utility bill or paycheck.
For more information, see the FAQ page of the National Voter Registration Law.
How can I enroll in person?
If you want to register to vote in person, you can go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or military recruiting center.
Click here to find the local DMV office closest to you.
How can I register and vote if I am out of the country?
If you are a United States citizen and currently live outside the country or are serving in the military, you can register to vote and request an absentee ballot through the Federal Voting Assistance Program.
Do I need to register if I just moved to another place in California?
You must update your voter registration with your local election official. If you have moved within your current county, you must complete a new voter registration with your new updated address. If you moved county, you must re-register in your new county.
If I am already registered, how do I check the status of my registration?
California voters who want to check if and where they are registered to vote, their political party preference, language preference, and/or the status of their vote-by-mail or provisional ballot can do so. here.
How can I find my polling place?
Vote centers can be found at the county elections office links below.
To locate a vote center elsewhere in California, Click here.