Register to Vote in Time for the New York Primary!
Are you registered to vote in New York?
If the answer is no, you've only got until March 25th to register in person or by mail. And we're here to make sure you don't blow it!
Need a reminder? Text the word 'primary' to 69866 to receive mobile alerts to guide you through the registration process. You'll receive one helpful text a day in the days leading up to the deadline!
For the first time in decades, the outcome of the New York primary is expected to matter a lot, to both parties. This is your chance to cast a historic vote!
To apply by mail, just follow these easy steps:
- Download and print the New York State Voter Registration Form (available in English and Spanish)
- Fill it out (it's only one page!) and remember to choose a party affiliation
- Fill in the address of your local County Board of Elections (there's a full directory at the end of your form)
- Seal it up, add a stamp, and drop it in a mailbox by March 25th
See? It doesn't take much time, but it's easy to forget about or procrastinate too long.
By signing up for our mobile alerts, you'll receive one helpful text a day from March 21st to March 25th. Standard text messaging rates may apply.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Registering to Vote in NY:
Do I have to apply by mail, or can I show up somewhere and register in person?
In New York, you can either print and mail in your registration form, or register at your local board of elections (click here to find out where that is) or any state agency participating in the National Voter Registration Act (here's a list of those offices).
Do I have to register with a political party for my vote to count?
New York has closed primaries. That means you must be registered as a Republican or a Democrat in order to vote, so independents or non-affiliated voters won't be able to vote in New York's primary. Check here to see if you are registered with a party. If this is your first time registering to vote in New York, you need to register with a party by the March 25th deadline. If you are registered to vote in New York, but you not registered as a Democrat or a Republican, you won't be able to vote in the primary (the deadline to declare or change parties was in October of 2015).
I'm 17 years old, but I'll turn 18 by November 8, 2016. Can I register to vote in the New York primary?
Wait a minute - you're a civic-minded 17 year old concerned about your democratic rights? Are you looking for an internship?? (Half kidding...)
According to New York state rules, you must be 18 by the date of the voting event, so you won't be able to vote in the primary. But you will be able to cast your first vote in the general election!
