Who Can and Can’t Vote in U.S. Elections
You must be a U.S. citizen to vote in federal, state, or local elections.
Who Can Vote?
You can vote in U.S. elections if you:
Are a U.S. citizen
Meet your state’s residency requirements
You can be homeless and still meet these requirements.
Are 18 years old on or before Election Day
In almost every state, you can register to vote before you turn 18 if you will be 18 by Election Day. See a table of voter registration age requirements by state.
Are registered to vote by your state’s voter registration deadline. North Dakota does not require voter registration.
Who CAN’T Vote?
Non-citizens, including permanent legal residents
Some people with felony convictions. Rules vary by state. Check with your state elections office about the laws in your state.
Some people who are mentally incapacitated. Rules vary by state.
For president in the general election: U.S. citizens residing in U.S. territories
Check with your state or local election office for any questions about who can and cannot vote.
