First Time Voter?

Casting your first vote is exciting -- and sometimes confusing. But it doesn't have to be. Follow this Easy Guide from VOTE411.org to make your first voting experience stress-free and empowering, as it should be.

What You Need to Know

First time and seasoned voters all need a plan before casting their ballot. Make a plan and get prepared to go to the polls.

Data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center found that 16.2 million Americans are currently enrolled in college, not to mention high school students aged 18 or older who are eligible to vote. This population represents a significant voting bloc.

REGISTERING TO VOTE IN PERSON OR BY MAIL

You must provide your driver’s license number or state ID number if you have one. If you do not have either of these IDs, you must provide the last four digits of your Social Security number if you have one. If you do not have a Social Security number, then leave that space blank on your registration form.

WHEN YOU VOTE

If the state can’t match up your numbers to official records, you will have to show an ID document before your vote counts. If you vote in person, present one of the acceptable forms of ID. The forms of ID you can use are listed below. OR - If you vote by mail, provide a copy of one of the acceptable forms of ID with your absentee (or mail-in) ballot. Check your state’s rules for more information. The forms of ID you can use are listed below.