Preparing to vote: age 18 and under

This is your future! Vote.

Young person looks at vote.gov site on a laptop.

Voting gives you the power to shape your future and be an active part of your community.

Take the first step on your voting journey – register

You can pre-register before you turn 18 in most states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories, but you must be 18 to vote. Several states allow you to vote in primary elections at the age of 17 if you will be 18 before the general election. Learn more about your state’s rules and find upcoming election dates in your area on your state’s election website.

Make a voting plan so you'll be prepared

Voting methods vary by state and territory. Most states offer flexible options to make registering to vote and voting work for your schedule and individual needs.

You have options for registering

Each state and territory sets its own rules for registering to vote. You may be able to: 

Find voter registration deadlines

There is no national voter registration deadline. In some states, the last day to register is 30 days before Election Day. In other states, you can register on Election Day. Election Day refers to any election (local, state, or a national election). Find voter registration deadlines in your state. 

Voter ID requirements

Each state and territory sets its own voter ID rules. In most states, you must bring your identification to vote in person and provide ID information when you vote by mail. Check your state’s voter ID requirements.

You can get an ID card at your state motor vehicle office, even if you do not drive. You will need to pay to get an ID card, but there are organizations that may be able to help you with ID-related fees.

You do not need a voter registration card to vote.

Voting in person

Most people who vote on Election Day must vote in person at a voting location. When you arrive at the voting location, you will see election workers ready to help you. You will vote by selecting your choices on a paper ballot or by using an electronic device. 

Find your voting location. The opening and closing times for voting locations vary by jurisdiction. Check with your state or local election office if you have any questions about your voting location.

Voting by mail and absentee voting

Some states conduct elections entirely by mail. Others allow you to ask for an absentee ballot if you’re unable to vote in person or simply prefer to vote by mail. Each state has its own guidelines, so check to see if you’re eligible to vote by mail in your state. 

How to return a mail ballot

  • By mail: In some states and territories, ballots come with a prepaid return envelope. In others, you need to add postage to your envelope before putting it in the mail. Be sure to completely fill out your return envelope before sending. 
  • Drop box or in person: You don’t need a stamp if you return your ballot to your local election office or an official ballot drop box. Many use drop boxes, but their location and availability may vary. Check with your local election office to find your nearest drop box.

Learn about your ballot

Learn how your vote affects your community so you can make an informed decision. 

Many election offices post sample ballots online. Some also provide information online or by mail about candidates and ballot measures. Check your state or local election website for more information.

Sign up to be a poll worker

Support your community by becoming a paid poll worker. Poll worker duties are different depending on where you live. Many local election offices have poll workers do tasks such as:  

  • Set up a voting location 

  • Welcome voters 

  • Confirm voter registration 

  • Hand out ballots  

  • Help voters use voting equipment 

  • Explain voting procedures 

As a poll worker, you will be paid for your time. Pay varies depending on location. Learn more about how to become a poll worker.