How to vote: Everything you need to know to vote in the U.S.

Voting is one of the most fundamental rights in any democracy, and knowing how to navigate the process is key to making sure your voice is heard. Whether you’re a first-time voter or you’ve been to the polls before, it’s crucial to stay informed about the requirements, registration processes, and voting logistics. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know to participate in local and national elections.

How to register to vote

Before heading to the polls, the first step is ensuring you’re registered to vote. Every state has different processes for registering, but in most cases, it can be done online. This year, Change.org is partnering with TurboVote to make sure our users can get registered and have all the info they need to vote. Confirm your registration at Change.TurboVote.org. Be mindful of registration deadlines, as they vary by state and election.

Who can vote?

In the United States, eligibility to vote includes the following basic requirements:

• You must be a U.S. citizen.
• You must be at least 18 years old by Election Day.
• You must meet your state’s residency requirements.

To check whether you meet all the voting requirements in your state, visit your state’s election website or Change.TurboVote.org. 

Where is my polling place?

Once registered, it’s important to know where you’ll be casting your ballot. Your polling location depends on where you live, and it can change based on the election or changes in your voter registration address. TurboVote will identify your designated polling station.

Voting options: Early voting and absentee voting

Some states allow early voting, which means you can cast your ballot at a designated polling location before Election Day. This option is particularly helpful if you want to avoid long lines or if Election Day doesn’t fit your schedule.

Alternatively, absentee voting or voting by mail allows you to cast your ballot without physically going to the polls. To vote by mail, you’ll need to request an absentee ballot from your state election office and return it by the deadline. Keep in mind that deadlines for requesting and submitting absentee ballots vary, so plan ahead.

What to bring to vote

In many states, you will need to bring some form of ID to your polling place to vote. This could include:

• Driver’s license or state-issued ID card
• U.S. passport
• Military ID
• Voter registration card

Check with your state’s election office or website to understand what forms of identification are accepted to ensure a smooth voting process. Some states have more lenient ID requirements, while others are stricter, so it’s essential to know the rules.

What time does voting end?

Voting hours differ by state, but polls typically open between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. and close between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. It’s important to check your state’s specific polling hours. And remember, if you’re in line when the polls close, you still have the right to cast your ballot—stay in line!

How old do you have to be to vote?

In federal and state elections, the minimum age to vote is 18. However, some states allow individuals who are 17 but will turn 18 before Election Day to register and participate in primaries or other specific elections. To find out more, check with your state’s election office to see if you’re eligible.

Why voting matters

Voting is your opportunity to shape the future of your community and country. Whether the issue is healthcare, education, climate change, or civil rights, casting your ballot allows you to voice your opinion on the policies that matter most. By participating in elections, you help elect officials who represent your interests and the well-being of your community.

Voting rights petitions on Change.org

The fight to protect and expand voting rights is a hot topic in the United States. Several significant petitions on Change.org advocate for voter protection and increased accessibility, each with thousands of signatures. Here are three petitions making waves in the voting rights landscape:

1. Pass the For the People Act

This petition calls for the passage of the For the People Act—a comprehensive bill designed to protect and expand voting rights. The act aims to reduce the influence of money in politics, combat voter suppression, and ensure fair districting. With more than 20,000 signatures, this petition represents a collective demand for legislation that will guarantee every American has a voice at the polls. You can read more and support the petition here.

2. Stop Voter Suppression Bills in Texas

Voter suppression laws have been a growing concern, especially in states like Texas. This petition opposes recent bills passed by the Texas legislature that make it more difficult for people—especially marginalized communities—to vote. The petition is urging lawmakers to repeal these restrictive measures and protect access to the ballot for all Texans. Nearly 50,000 people have signed the petition, and you can add your name here.

3. Help Voters Get to the Polls – Uber’s Role in Election Access

This petition focuses on making transportation to polling places more accessible by calling on Uber to provide free or discounted rides to voters on Election Day. The petition has garnered attention for addressing a key barrier to voting: access to reliable transportation. By supporting this petition, individuals hope to remove one more obstacle for voters, ensuring more people can participate in the democratic process. More than 35,000 people have added their name to the petition. Learn more and sign the petition here.

These petitions highlight the ongoing efforts to protect voting rights across the U.S. and provide avenues for individuals to get involved in advocating for fair elections.

Learn more

For additional resources on voting rights and how to get involved in elections, check out:

• What is the Right to Petition?
• How to Get a Law Changed
• Government and Politics Petitions
• Elections and Voter Rights Petitions

Voting is a powerful tool in shaping the future, and with the right information, you can make sure your voice is heard.

This message is brought to you by Change.org and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.