Eligibility Requirements to Vote

You must be a U.S. citizen to vote in federal, state, or local elections.

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 some states, you can pre-register to vote before you turn 18 if you will be 18 by election day.)
• Are registered to vote by your state’s voter registration deadline. (North Dakota does not require voter registration.)

You can’t vote in U.S. elections if you: 

• Are not a citizen, including permanent legal residents.
• Have a felony conviction in some states. Check with your state elections office about the laws in your state.
• Are a U.S. citizen residing in a U.S. territory — only for the general presidential election.