Voting for the first time can be intimidating as you learn to navigate the voting system in your state. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about voting in the United States.
You may also want to check out Rock the Vote's FAQs if you have other questions that are not answered here.
Who can register to vote?
To vote, you must meet the following requirements:
Do I register to vote in my home state or in the state where I am attending college?
You can vote either in your home state or in the state where you attend college, but you cannot vote in both.
I think I already registered to vote at a different address, but I'm not sure. What should I do?
If you aren't sure if you're already registered to vote, use Rock the Vote to check your voter registration status. You can also complete a new voter registration form using the address where you want to be registered on the line that asks for your address. If you think you were registered at another address, insert that address on the line that asks you to list a former address.
How do I register to vote?
California allows you to register to vote online. See the link on the "Voter Information: State of California" page of this guide.
Where do I go to vote?
The California Secretary of State website has a Find Your Polling Place page to help you find your polling location. As a registered voter in the State of California, you will be mailed a ballot at the address you gave in your registration. The ballot will be mailed a few weeks prior to the election, and you will be able to mark your ballot at home and either submit it by mail, or physically take it to a designated polling place.
Do I need a photo ID to vote?
Not in the state of California.