With just over a month until Election Day, the deadline to register to cast your vote in the Nov. 5 election in more than a dozen states is quickly approaching.
Voters who want to participate in what could be one of the closest and most consequential presidential elections in more than a generation may want to check their registration status or make sure they register on time.
While each state sets its own voter registration deadline, federal law dictates that states cannot set their voter registration deadline within thirty days of an election. But that window is approaching quickly.
According to NCSL, fifteen states have deadlines of 28 to 30 days before the election, meaning some of those deadlines arrive on Sunday, October 6.
These are the states with upcoming deadlines:
Fifteen states have looming voter registration deadlines for those who want to vote in the November election.
States have a variety of different ways people can register to vote, including in person, by mail, and online.
In many cases, the deadlines are the same no matter how one registers to vote, but in many cases it is not guaranteed, so those who register should check the deadline for their preferred option.
In some cases, states have earlier deadlines for mailing in voter registration forms or registering online, but allow other options for registering during early voting.
Registering to vote is incredibly easy. But because voter registration depends on the state, the best way to learn how to register is to check with the state in which you live.
Volunteers helping to register voters in South Carolina on September 17, 2024
Websites like Vote.org, Vote411.org and USA.gov help direct people to the most up-to-date information to register and verify their voter status.
When it comes to registering, people can usually register online, print the form and mail it, or do it in person.
Some places that may have paper forms available in addition to local election offices, depending on the state, may include public libraries, voter registration drives, or Departments of Motor Vehicles.
Be sure to also check the identification documentation required by state.
According to the NCSL, nineteen states and Washington, DC have same-day voter registration that allows people to register on Election Day and cast their vote.
Montana and North Carolina also offer same-day voter registration, but only during early voting, not on Election Day, Nov. 5.
