Get Ready to Vote for Kids!

Participating in elections is one of the most powerful ways to influence policies that shape children’s environmental health.

Before researching candidates and casting your ballot, make sure you are registered and prepared to vote by following these steps.

Step 1 - Confirm Your Eligibility

In most states, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Meet your state’s residency requirements
  • Be at least 18 years old by Election Day (although some states allow 16 and 17 year olds to preregister)

Eligibility rules, including those related to felony convictions, vary by state. Always verify requirements through your state’s official election office.

Step 2 - Register to Vote

It is possible to register to vote in person or via mail, but the fastest way is online. Because registration deadlines vary by state and processing times can differ, it is important to register as early as possible before missing your opportunity to vote.

This helpful guide from NPR lists the types of registration possible and important deadlines for each state’s primary elections.

  • Register Online: Visit vote.gov, click ‘select your state or territory to begin,’ and follow the instructions on the website to register.
  • Register In-Person: If you would prefer to register in person, this can be done at your state or local election office, state motor vehicles office, or at many government public assistance offices.
  • Register By Mail: If you would prefer to register via mail, visit vote.gov, select your state or territory, print off the necessary forms, fill them out completely, and mail them to your state election office.

Step 3 - Check Your Registration Status

After registering, confirm that your registration is active and accurate. You can verify your status through your state election website or by starting at vote.gov.

Step 4 - Know Your Deadlines and Voting Requirements

Each state sets its own:

  • Voter registration deadline
  • Early voting dates
  • Mail ballot request deadlines
  • Identification requirements

Check these details in advance to ensure you can exercise your right to vote without issue.  U.S. Vote Foundation has a helpful tool for voting deadlines. Ballotpedia keeps records on voter ID laws by state.

Step 5 - Make a Plan to Vote

Next Steps:

Voter Guide for Children's Environmental Health

A rubric you can use to assess local, state, and federal candidates to make sure they’re keeping children at the center of their decisions.

Voter Guide Toolkit

Put the Voter Guide into action using the following practical, step-by-step guidance to help you evaluate candidates’ records, policy positions, and commitments.