Edit the Voting Bill

Before anything else, confirm you are eligible. You must be a U.S. citizen, meet your state's residency requirements, and be at least 18 years old on or before Election Day. Some states allow 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register.

Registration is your official entry into the electoral roll. Most states offer online registration at vote.gov. Deadlines vary — some states require registration 30 days before an election, while others allow same-day registration. Check your state's rules early.

After registering, verify your information is correct and up to date. Check your registration status, polling place, and what's on your ballot. Many states provide lookup tools so you know exactly what to expect before you arrive.

Know your polling place, its hours, and what identification you need to bring. Plan your route, arrange time off if needed, and consider early voting or absentee ballot options. Preparation is the final step to ensuring your voice is counted.