Information on this page is for anyone without a permanent address. This includes people who move around often or are between homes. If you have limited internet access, you can go to your local election office in person or call them to get answers to your voting questions. Find the address and phone number of your state or local election office online or get more information at your local library.
If you are a homeless service provider, the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness has more resources for helping people vote.
What you'll need to register
You will need a form of ID
Each state and territory has its own voter ID rules. You may not need an ID to register to vote, but in most states, you must bring identification to vote in person. You can check your state’s specific ID requirements online. You can also ask your local election office about what kind of ID you'll need to register and to vote.
What if you don’t have an ID?
You can get an ID card at your state motor vehicle office, even if you do not drive. You may need to pay to get an ID card, but there are organizations that may be able to help you pay the ID fee. Some states also offer ID cards for free or at a reduced cost for people who are unhoused.
You will need a mailing address
You need to provide a mailing address so your state can send you important voting information by mail. The mailing address does not have to be a fixed home address. If you do not have a fixed home address to get mail, you can use a different address as your mailing address.
Examples of a mailing address you may be able to use:
- A nearby shelter, even if you do not currently live there
- A nearby religious center
- General Delivery, if your local post office offers it
- A P.O. box at a local post office near where you live
- The home address of a friend or family member who lives nearby
You can use a description of the place where you live or sleep as your home address, such as a park or the intersections of street corners. You cannot use this description as your mailing address.
Use your current address as both your home and mailing address if you live at:
- A shelter
- A religious center
- Any other community place
If you’re not sure what address to use, ask your state or local election office.
If you move after you register to vote
Remember to call or visit your local election office to update both your home and mailing address. Many states allow you to update your address on your state’s election website. You can also call or visit your local election office to update your address. After you update your address, you can vote in elections in your new location.
In some states, you must live at your address for a certain number of days before you can register to vote there. Ask your local election office about your state’s residency rules.
If you need more support with registration and voting
Get help filling out your voter registration
Your state or local election office can help you fill out your voter registration or request a mail ballot. A local shelter or program for unhoused people may also be able to help you.
Find transportation to your voting place
You might be able to travel to your voting location free of charge through local groups or a ride-sharing service. Ask your local election office or a local shelter about your options.
Registration basics
Here’s what else you need to know about registering to vote.
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.
Your voter registration card
When you register to vote or change your registration, you may be sent a voter registration card. This card confirms that you are registered and ready to vote. You do not need to have your voter registration card with you in order to vote, but you may need to present a form of ID. Find out how to get a voter registration card on your state or local election website.
Check that your registration is up to date
Make sure you’re registered with the correct legal name and address. Many states also require you to register with a political party to vote in primary elections. Select your state or territory to confirm your voter registration status on your state election website.
Your registration may be marked “inactive” if you did not vote in at least two federal elections and did not respond when election officials tried to reach you. Your state or local election office can help you move your registration status back to active or answer questions you may have.
Ready to vote?
Voting methods vary by state and territory. Make a plan so you’re prepared 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.