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Register

Ready to shape the future? It takes only five minutes to become a voter.

Register to vote

Get ready to flex your power at the ballot box. The first step is registering to vote.

Start here with some basic information. You’ll be directed to your state’s election website to complete your registration.

That’s it! In about five minutes, you’ll be set to take part and make your voice heard.

How to register

1. Make sure you’re eligible

In general, you need to be 18 years old by Election Day and a U.S. citizen (in addition to some other requirements.)

Need to check if you qualify? See who can vote in California.

2. Decide where to register — at home or school

If you are living away from home while at college, you are eligible to vote in either location. Which you choose is up to you — just make sure it’s somewhere you can get to on Election Day if you’re voting in person, or receive a ballot if you’re voting by mail.

Already registered? Check that your address is current and re-register if your address has changed.

3. Pick a political party ... or choose not to

About a third of California voters register as “No Party Preference,” meaning that they are not affiliated with any particular political party. You can, too. Just be aware that it will limit your choice of ballots in California’s March 5 primary. The Green, Peace and Freedom, and Republican presidential primaries are open only to voters registered with their respective parties.

The Democratic Party, the American Independent Party and the Libertarian Party all allow No Party Preference voters to request their party’s presidential ballot in the March 5, 2024 presidential primary election.

4. Register as soon as possible!

February 20 is the deadline to register online to vote in the 2024 primary election. After that day, California voters can register at their county elections offices or use same day registration on election day. Learn more about same day voter registration.

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Take the pledge

Make a promise to vote by Election Day and invite your friends to join you. Accountability is key to getting out the vote.

Sign up here for reminders, info and updates to help you get to the polls.

 

Key dates

February 20, 2024: Online registration deadline

March 5, 2024: Election Day