How to Vote in D.C, Maryland and Virginia

How to Vote in 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: Register to Vote

• D.C., MD, and VA, allow residents to register online, in-person or by mail. You may pre-register to vote if you will be 18 years old by the general election. Visit your state board of elections website to learn more.

Step 2: Know the Candidates

• Select candidates that are running for political office based on your own research. Do not rely solely on social media or media coverage of the candidate or party affiliation. It is important that you learn the issues that are important to each candidate.

Step 3: Know the Rules

• Most voting stations are open 12 hours on election day. According to federal law, first-time voters must bring a valid photo ID or a bill, pay stub or government document showing their name and current address.

Step 4: Find Your Polling Place

• State election offices determine your polling place by your voter registration address. It is important that your voter registration address is current.

Step 5: Cast Your Ballot

• You can vote in-person or by mailing in an absentee ballot. If you are unable to vote on the day of the election, there may be opportunities to cast your ballot early.

* In D.C., you may pre-register to vote if you are 16 years old. You may vote in a primary election if you are 17 years old and will be 18 years old by the next general election. In MD, you may register to vote if you are 16 years old but cannot vote unless you will be 18 years old by the next general election.