FAQ’s Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to register and to vote?

Yes, if you are:

• a citizen of the United States.

• a legal resident of your state.

• at least 18 years old by election day.

• not in prison, probation, parole, ex-felons–varies from state to state; check with your City/County Elections Office).

• not declared mentally incompetent by a court (varies, check with your City/County Elections Office).

How can I register?

Fill out the short voter registration-by-mail form. Sign the form. Mail it or go online to www.activoteamerica.com.

Where can I find the registration form?

Voter registration forms are available at the post office, library, fire station, Department of Motor Vehicles, welfare department, Registrar of Voters, and the City/County Elections office. Also, many social service agencies have forms.  In addition, you can contact an activote representitive or log on to www.activoteamerica.com.

When can I register?

Register anytime, but be sure to do it by your state’s deadline if you want to vote in the upcoming election.

Does it cost anything to register?

No. Registration is free.

Am I registered once I fill out and mail the registration form?

No. You can’t be sure you are registered until you get a voter notification card from the county. If the notification card does not arrive within three weeks of mailing your registration, call your Registrar of Voters or City/County Elections Office and ask if you are registered?

Do I ever have to re-register?

Yes. If you move, change your name, want to change your political party, or have completed all conditions of a felony charge, you must register again. Registration rules and procedures for convicted felons vary by state (check with your City/County Elections Office).

What if I move right before the election?

You may vote by returning to your former precinct or by requesting a vote-by-mail ballot.

Will I remain a registered voter even if I fail to vote?

Yes.

Can I register for someone else?

No. You can only register for yourself. However, you may help others fill out a form, but they must sign the form.

Do I have to choose a political party in order to register and to vote?

No. You may check the "decline to state" or independent box on the form if you do not wish to belong to a political party.

What is a political party?

A political party is a group of individuals who try to determine public policy by organizing to win elections and operate government.

How do I join a political party?

It is as simple as checking the box for the political party of your choice on the registration form. There are no requirements to join a political party.

If I declare a party of preference when I register, can I change later?

Yes, you just have to re-register.

Am I required to work for the party or contribute money to it?

No.

Where will I vote?

The address will be on your registration card. Both should show whether the polling location is accessible to the disabled. Polling places may change from one election to another. It is important to go to the correct polling place because your name will not be on the roster of voters anywhere else.

What if my polling place is not accessible to the disabled?

In most states, you may vote by absentee ballot. Check with your local City/County Elections office to learn what you should do. If you prefer to vote in person, get as close to your polling place as you can and a precinct board member will bring you a ballot for you to cast.

When are the polls open?

The time polls are open on election day varies by state. However, usual hours are from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Can I vote by mail?

Contact your City/County Elections Office for information on obtaining an absentee ballot and about deadlines.

Do I need identification when I go to vote?

No. You will just be asked to state your name and address and to sign the roster of voters. Bring along your voter registration card.

How long may I stay in the polling booth?

Take your time. Some states limit voting to ten minutes, but will extend that time if no other voters are waiting. You may take your pre-marked Sample Ballot into the polling place with you.

What if I make a mistake on my ballot?

You may request another one.

What will I be voting on?

We vote on two types of things:

• People: candidates who are running for elective office.

• Plans: ballot measures that change local or state laws.

You do not have to vote on everything. You can just vote on the things you care about.

How do I vote?

• You will sign your name on a list of all the voters in your area.

• You will be given a ballot and you will enter a voting booth

• You will put the ballot in the voting machine and mark your choices.