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Informed Voter Guide

This guide provides resources for voting with the student voter in mind.

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Checking Voter Status

Here are a few reasons you may want to double check your voter registration:

  • You can't remember if you're already registered
  • You just turned 18 years old
  • You moved or changed addresses recently
  • You just became a US citizen
  • You changed your name
  • Your state has a tendency to purge voter rolls

Re-Registering to Vote

When/ Why should I re-register to vote?
     You should re-register to vote when:
  • You change your residence address or mailing address,
  • You change your name, or
  • You change your political party choice.

Frequently Asked Student Voter Questions

How do I register to vote? 

Registering to vote is fairly simple and fast! One thing you need to keep in mind is that registration deadlines and requirements can vary by state. In California, you can register up to 15 days before the election. To get more information and register, visit these sites: 

 

Can I vote by mail?

If you are registering in California, yes, you will automatically be able to vote by mail. If you are registering outside of California, you will need to check the voting laws regarding voting by mail or absentee ballots in your home state. You can get more information about absentee ballots through Vote.org and Ballotpedia.

 

I'm a student, what address should I use to register to vote?

Students have a choice about where to register to vote.
You have a right to register to vote at the address you consider the place where you live, whether that is your family's home or the place where you attend school. You should update your registration anytime this home address changes.
You may only be registered and vote in one location. (Source: Campusvoteproject.org)

 

Where is my voting location/ polling place?

 

Do I need to bring ID to my polling place? 

Voter ID laws vary by state and if you are a newly registered California voter, you may need to bring identification with you. It's always a good idea to check before you go to your polling place as voter ID laws can change frequently. For more details here is more information on voter ID laws (Vote.org).

 

Has my ballot been delivered/ counted?

Now you can track your ballot to make sure it has been received and counted: