Inclusion Project Age of Majority Guide: Voting

Voting now that you’re becoming an ADULT...Here’s how you can get READY!

When you turn 18, you have the right to vote in local, state, and federal elections. In a democracy like the United States, voting is how we choose our leaders.

When you turn 18, there are some steps you need to take to be able to vote. You will need to register with your local Board of Elections. You can register online, by mail, at the voter registration office, at the library, at the DMV, or at a state office.

You will also need to figure out how you want to vote. If you want to vote in person, you will need to find out where to go. This is called your polling place.

Some people who have guardians might not be able to vote. If you need support in making decisions and voting is important to you, talk with your parents and other adults you trust about how to keep the right to vote.

If you are able to and want to vote, your parents and people you trust can help you make a plan.

You can vote early by mailing in your ballot. This is called absentee voting.

If you decide to vote on election day, there will be election workers at your polling place if you need help reading or filling out the forms, or if you have questions.

You can also bring someone with you to help. If you have trouble getting into the building, an election worker can bring the forms to your car.

It might be helpful to call ahead and let the election officers know that you’re coming and will need help.

Why is it important:

“Voting is very important to say our opinion and express our opinions and express the things we want.”

“You get to have a voice.”

What advice would you give your younger self?

“Take voting seriously and really think about what you’re voting for and how it will affect your future. Don’t over think it. What it really comes down to what you agree with.”

Sometimes there is a special election to decide who will be on the ballot. This is called a primary election. If you will be 18 by election day, you can vote in the primary election when you’re 17.