First time voters and college students often find themselves caught in the technicalities of state election laws. Here are some tips to help navigate through the maze.
ELIGIBILITY:
You can use the national voter registration form (see example) if you are a citizen of the U.S by birth or naturalization and reside or have an address in the U.S. The form can be found on the website of the Federal Election Commission at: http://www.fabnit.com/nvra_update.pdf. Download the form and make multiple copies to register students on campus, even if they reside in other states.
The form allows you to:
- Register to vote in your state (state specific instructions provided)
- Change your name or address on your current voter form
- Register with a political party
WHERE TO REGISTER:
Most states allow mail-in registration forms. Check the mailing instructions provided on your state website (usually the Secretary of State) or on the FEC website listed above. All states require you have only one address at which you are registered to vote. As a college student, you can register from your campus address or the address where you previously resided before moving to campus.
THE 30-DAY RULE:
Any change made to your voter registration status will generally take 30 days to get through the system, unless your state specifically allows same day voter registration. Allow enough time for the clerk to get you onto the voter file before an election, or plan to vote at home if you change your address the day before the election. There is no fee to register to vote or to make name or address changes.
FIRST-TIME VOTERS:
Because of numerous changes in federal law since the 2000 election, many states require new voters to show up to vote in person the first time they vote. There are a series of complicated exceptions, but for the most part, if you've never voted before, don't plan on voting absentee (unless specifically allowed by your state). Some states also require voters to show ID at the polls. Details vary from state to state but do not assume you are safe. Bring a picture ID like a Driver's License, passport, military ID or state ID, as long as you can show some proof of address.
RETURNING VOTERS:
If you voted before you may obtain an absentee ballot if you expect to be out of town or unavailable to vote at the polls on Election Day. A written request to the clerk in the city where you are registered is generally the way to obtain an absentee ballot. Some states allow you to apply on line as well.
Did you Know?
Voter registration and election participation rates among 18 to 24 year -olds are the lowest for any age group.
