APIA Voting Guide 101 FAQs
– how to register to vote
– how to research candidates and issues
– what are some important dates
– what are the different ways to vote
– how do i register to vote by mail
– How do these positions impact my life?
– Voter Registration – How to Register, Voter Information Card, Change of Address, Military and Registering, Statistical Information, Closed Primary
– Voting – Polling Place Hours, Identification at the Polls, Voter Challenges, Provisional Ballot Voting, How to Request a Vote-by-Mail Ballot, Voting-By-Mail, Early Voting
Find your polling location →
Being an informed voter is critical before you cast your ballot—use the guide below to learn about the processes of voting, how to learn about various issues on your ballot, and more. If you have any questions or need help voting, you may always call our toll-free election hotline, 1-888-API-VOTE (1-888-274-8683). Bilingual assistance is available in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Tagalog.
Who may register to vote?
To register to vote, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old on Election Day (November 7, 2017), and you must be a resident of the state you are registering in.
How can I register to vote?
You can begin your voter registration online using our online widget, which also is available in various languages.
Are there deadlines for registration?
Yes. Most states require you to register to vote a month before Election Day, although it varies by state. Some states also allow you to register on Election Day. Please check the specifics in your state and register before the deadline.
I’m a college student living away from home. Where should I register?
You may register either at your home or in the jurisdiction your school is in. It is your right to be able to register and vote in the state your school is located, you just may need to provide verification that you are enrolled on that campus.
What must I do if I’ve changed my address since I registered?
If you moved within the same city or town, notify your local election office of your updated address in writing. However, you must register to vote again if:
- You move to a new city or town, or
- You change your name, or
- You change your political party affiliation.
I have a friend who is a U.S. citizen who doesn’t speak English. Where can I get assistance for him/her?
Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act requires local election officials to provide bilingual voter registration applications, ballots, and language assistance in certain jurisdictions where more than 10,000, and/or 5%, of the population is of a language minority group.
See the details of Section 203 here, and if your jurisdiction is covered.
If you need help voting, language assistance is available through our voter hotline (1-888-API-VOTE) in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Tagalog.
Are there other ways to vote besides going to the polls?
Can’t make it to the polls on election day? Vote absentee or take advantage of early voting! All states are required to have absentee ballot (vote by mail) programs to allow citizens with disabilities and overseas military personnel to vote. States also allow early mail-in or in-person absentee voting for other reasons such as work obligations or being out of town for vacation or school. Find the details of early or absentee voting in your state.
How do I verify that my voter registration was received and processed correctly?
Many states have online voter portals to check or verify your voter registration (check your state here), or you may contact your local election officials to check your voter registration.
Where do I vote on election day?
Two weeks before Election Day, you can find your polling location here.
Who is running for office in my district and what initiatives are on the ballot?
Check to see if organizations in your state have voter guides, or for the general election, you may visit Vote411.org to find information on what and who is on your ballot.
I would like to understand how the federal government affects my life on a daily basis. How can I learn more about how the government is supposed to serve me?
Refer to www.usa.gov. This is a one-stop site about government services to help Americans across the country and world find the information they need.
What issues affect Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders?
The National Council of Asian Pacific Americans compiles a Policy Blueprint highlighting key issues affecting the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, from civil rights, education, to jobs and the economy.
What are my rights as a voter?
What do I do if I think I’ve been treated unfairly on Election Day?
Call our toll-free election hotline at 1-888-API-VOTE (1-888-274-8683) any time if you have any questions or concerns.