Registration FAQs

Who can register and vote in Minnesota?

To vote you must be:

• A U.S. citizen
• At least 18 years old on Election Day
• A resident of Minnesota for 20 days
• Not currently incarcerated for a felony conviction (more info)
• You can vote while under guardianship unless a judge specifically has revoked your right to vote.
• You cannot vote if a court has ruled that you are legally incompetent.

Do I have to register if I move or change names? 

You must re-register each time you change address, change names or do not vote at least once during a four-year period. Update your registration by completing a new registration application. 

Is there a registration deadline?

Unlike many states, you can wait until Election Day to register in Minnesota. However, we encourage you to register before Election Day—it will save you time at the polling place.

• The deadline to register online is 11:59 p.m., 21 days before Election Day.
• The deadline to register on paper is 5 p.m., 21 days before Election Day.
• Otherwise, you can register on Election Day at your polling place.

How old do I have to be to register?

You can pre-register to vote as a 16- or 17-year-old in Minnesota. You must be 18 years old before voting.

Can I register when I renew my driver's license or state ID?

You can register to vote by checking a box on your driver’s license or state ID application or renewal form.

Can I register when I change addresses with U.S. Postal Service?

If you move to a new Minnesota residence, you can submit a United States Postal Service (USPS) change-of-address form. USPS will notify election officials of the change. If election officials can match the record in their system, they will update your address and mail a green confirmation postcard to you.

Do I have to choose a political party when I register?

Minnesota does not have political party registration. Voters are not asked to publicly declare affiliation with a political party.

Where can I get proof of registration?

Proof of registration can be obtained from your county election office. 

My registration has a typo—what do I do?

If you note a typo in your name on the confirmation postcard you receive after registering, contact your county election office.

What data on my registration record private?

Read the privacy notice for voter registration applications to learn what data is kept private and why private data is collected.

How do I cancel my voter registration? 

Complete the Request to Inactivate Voter Record, and send it to your county election office.