With Election Day just over a month away, the deadline to register for the Nov. 5 elections in more than a dozen states is fast approaching.
Voters looking to participate in what could be one of the tightest and most consequential presidential elections in more than a generation may want to check their registration status or make sure they file on time.
Although each state sets its own voter registration deadline, federal law dictates that states cannot set their voter registration deadline within thirty days of the election. But that window is fast approaching.
According to NCSL, fifteen states have deadlines 28 to 30 days before the election, meaning some of those deadlines are coming as early as Sunday, October 6.
Here are the states with deadlines approaching:
Fifteen states will soon have a voter registration deadline for those who want to vote in the November election
States have several ways for people to register to vote, including in person, by mail and online.
In many cases, the deadlines are the same no matter how someone registers to vote, but in certain cases this is not guaranteed, so those registering should double check the deadline for their preferred option.
In some cases, states have earlier deadlines for mailing out voter registration forms or for online registration, but allow other options to register 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 contact the state in which you live.
Volunteers help register voters in South Carolina on September 17, 2024
Websites such as Vote.org, Vote411.org and USA.gov help direct people to the most up-to-date information to register and check their voter status.
When it comes to registration, people can usually register online, print and mail the form, or do it in person.
Some places where printed forms may already be available, aside from local election offices, depending on the state, include public libraries, voter registration stations, or departments of motor vehicles.
Be sure to also check required identification documentation depending on the state.
According to the NCSL, nineteen states and Washington DC have same-day voter registration, allowing people to register and vote on Election Day.
Montana and North Carolina also offer same-day voter registration, but only during early voting, not on Election Day, November 5.