Reading Skills for Today's Adults

You must be on the official list of voters before you can vote. This is called being “registered.” You need to register to vote if you just became eligible to vote, moved, changed your name, or have not voted in the last four years. To register to vote in the state of Minnesota, you must be all three of the following:

​

1. A citizen of the United States of America, and

​​

​

2. A resident of Minnesota at least 20 days before Election Day, and

​​

3. At least 18 years old by Election Day. 

How much does it cost to register?

​

Registering to vote is free! The easiest way to register is to fill out a voter registration card and mail it in. You need to provide postage. Once your card is processed, you will receive a postcard in the mail that tells you that you are registered. 

​

When should I register?

​

Register to vote at least 20 days before an election. You do not need to register again unless you move, change your name, or do not vote for four or more years. 

Where can I get a voter registration card?

​

• At state, county, or city offices

​

• At public libraries

​

• At courthouses

• Where you apply for, renew, or change your Minnesota driver’s license or ID card

• MN Secretary of State website at www.sos.state.mn.us.

Can I register on Election Day?

​

If you miss registering before the election, you can register on Election Day at your polling place. You will need proof of your identity and the address where you are living on Election Day. To prove your identity, bring one of the following with you to the polling place:

​

1. A current Minnesota Driver’s License or Minnesota Learner’s Permit, or a receipt for either. 

​

2. A Minnesota Identification Card or a receipt for the ID Card. 

​

3. Minnesota Student Fee Statement with your address in the precinct and a photo ID.

​​

4. A photo ID without current address together with a bill (or an electronic version). The bill must have your name, current address, and be due within 30 days of the election. Acceptable photo IDs are:  MN Driver’s License, MN Identification Card, U.S. Passport, U.S. Military ID, or Minnesota Student Photo ID. Acceptable bills are cable/internet, electric, gas, water, sewer, garbage, telephone, mortgage, or bank or credit card.

​​

5. “Notice of Late Registration” postcard sent by city clerk or county auditor.

​​

6. Someone who is registered in the precinct where you live who will vouch for your residence.