Voting is one of the most powerful ways to shape our shared future. But even though college-aged voters are the ones with the most future ahead of them, they’re the least likely to vote. In the 2024 presidential election election, less than half of eligible voters age 18-24 cast a ballot.
The deadline to vote in this year’s midterm election is Tuesday, Nov. 3. With so many important questions on the ballot this election — like deciding who you want to represent you in local, state and national governments — you don’t want to miss out.
Especially if you're a first-time voter, you might have some questions about how to actually cast your ballot. Here's what you need to know, thanks to information provided by election experts at the California Secretary of State’s Office.
Where should I start?
Before you can vote, you have to register. Check it off your list today: the deadline for online voter registration in California is Oct. 19.
Voting in another state? Rock the Vote can get you started, no matter where you call home.
Already registered? Double-check your status and registration address to be sure it’s current.
I’m all registered. Now what?
Nice! As long as you took care of that before Oct. 19, you’ll get a ballot in the mail if you registered in California.
I missed the Oct. 19 online voter registration deadline. Can I still vote in this election?
Yes. You’ll just need to go to an official polling place, county elections office or vote center to register and cast your ballot. Find a same-day voter registration facility close to you.
What’s the best way to turn in my ballot?
California voters have lots of options. Choose the one that works best for you:
Mail: Fill out your ballot on your own time and put it in the mail. Your ballot must be postmarked by Election Day, Nov. 3, so it's a good idea to get it in the mail a few days sooner. Postage is already paid. This also works if you’re in college in California, but voting by mail in your home state.
Drop box: Election officials have installed thousands of convenient, secure ballot boxes in communities across the state. If you’re a California voter, you can deposit your ballot in any official drop-box in the state, anytime between now and 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3. Find a drop location near you.
Don’t use a California ballot drop box if you’re voting by mail in another state — your ballot won’t make it to its destination.
Polling place: Return your completed ballot inside its signed envelope at any polling place before the polls close at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
I want to vote in California, but I’m studying in a different state or country this term. Can I get a ballot at my temporary address?
Yes. California’s online registration form has two address sections: the first one is for your home address, which has to be in California if you want to vote here.
The second address section asks where you want your ballot mailed to. That should be somewhere you can get mail this month, wherever you’re living. Then keep an eye out for that ballot envelope in your mailbox.
Your completed ballot has to be in the mail by Nov. 3 and received by ballot counters by Nov. 10. Especially if you’re studying abroad this term, it’s a good idea to mail your ballot as early as possible.
I’m not eligible to vote in this election. Can I still get involved?
Yes. You may be able to sign up to work at the polls on Election Day. The job involves setting up and breaking down polling places, helping voters navigate the process and understand their rights, and keeping ballots secure. It’s fun, it’s vital to the democratic process, and it pays! Learn more or apply to work the polls.
You don’t have to join an organized group or take on a big-time commitment to make a difference this election season. Start by talking to your friends about why their vote matters.
Where can I find more information about voting at my campus?
Every UC campus has its own office dedicated to making voting accessible for students. Contact your campus's voting lead below:
