Qualifications to be a Registered Voter

In order to be qualified to register to vote:

• You MUST be a US citizen
• You MUST be at least 18 years of age by the date of the next election
• You MUST reside in the precinct 30 days prior to the next election
• You MUST not be convicted AND in jail
• You MUST not claim the right to vote anywhere else

Where/How to Register to Vote

There are various places you may become registered to vote.

1. Voter registration is available in-person at your county or city election authority. 

Click here to identify your county or city election authority and their specific location address.

2. Mail-in voter registration forms are also available by contacting your county or city election authority.  By request, your county or city election authority will send you the voter registration form, which you must complete and return no later than 28 days prior to the election.

You may also download the voter registration application from the Illinois State Board of Elections here and return the completed registration form to your county or city election authority by mail.

You can also obtain a voter registration application in Spanish by clicking here.

Click here to identify your county or city election authority.

3. The following agencies are also qualified to register you to vote:
   Driver's License Facilities
   Department of Healthcare and Family Services
   Department of Public Health Office
   Department of Mental Health & Developmental Disabilities
   Department of Rehabilitation Service Office

Identification Required to Register to Vote

Two forms of identification are required to become registered. One must show your name and current address. The second form must show your name.

These forms of identification shall include, but not limited to:

• Driver's License
• Social Security Card
• Birth Certificate
• Checkbook
• Utility Bill
• Bank Statement
• Student I.D. Card
• State I.D. Card
• Credit Card

When to Register to Vote

Registration is open year round except:

• During the 27-day period just prior to an election and during the 2-day period after each election.
• For the November 2, 2010 General Election, the last day to become registered is Tuesday, October 5, 2010. Registration will re-open on Thursday, November 4, 2010.