Every Connecticut resident deserves a voice in local, state, and federal elections, and registering to vote is the first step. Whether you’re a first-time voter or you’ve recently moved to the Constitution State, this guide covers everything you need to know about voting in Connecticut. It walks you through everything you need to know to get registered and ready to cast your ballot. In fact, understanding voting Connecticut procedures makes the process much easier.
Who Can Register To Vote In Connecticut
Before you register, make sure you meet Connecticut’s eligibility requirements. You must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be at least 18 years old (or turn 18 by Election Day)
- Be a bona fide resident of the Connecticut town where you register
- Have completed confinement if you were previously convicted of a disfranchising felony
Green card holders, permanent legal residents, DREAMers, and DACA residents are not eligible to register or vote.
Three Ways To Register To Vote In Connecticut
Connecticut gives you three convenient options for registering to vote. When it comes to voting in Connecticut, you can easily choose the method that works for you.
Register Online
The fastest and easiest route is to register through Connecticut’s online portal at MyVote.CT.gov. The online registration deadline is 18 days before Election Day. Have your Connecticut driver’s license or state ID handy to complete the process.
Register By Mail
Prefer paper? Download the voter registration form from the Connecticut Secretary of State’s website and fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it to your town’s Registrar of Voters. The mail-in registration deadline requires the form to be postmarked 18 days before Election Day.
Register In Person
You can walk in and register at several locations. In-person registration is available at your state or local election office, your state motor vehicles office, and at many government public assistance offices. The in-person deadline also falls 18 days before Election Day. Moreover, voting Connecticut in person is highly encouraged if you want direct assistance from officials.
Missed the Deadline? Same-Day Registration Has You Covered
Don’t panic if you miss the standard registration cutoff. Connecticut has Same-Day Registration available during the period of Early Voting and on Election Day for voters who need it. Head to your town’s designated Same-Day Registration location, bring a valid photo ID and proof of residency, and you can register and vote on the same day. Keep in mind that Connecticut offers same-day voter registration for general elections only, and it is not available for primary elections.
Early Voting
Connecticut makes it easy to vote before Election Day. Early voting begins 15 days before the election, and the last day to vote early is 2 days before Election Day. No reason is required to vote early in Connecticut. Additionally, early voting options in Connecticut are open to all residents.
Voting By Absentee Ballot
Connecticut requires a valid reason to vote absentee. You can vote absentee if you are an active member of the armed forces, will be out of town on Election Day, have a sickness or physical disability that prevents you from voting in person, have religious beliefs that prevent secular activities on Election Day, or will be performing duties as an election official at a different polling place. Request your absentee ballot early. Officials suggest applying at least a month before Election Day to give yourself plenty of time.
What To Bring When You Vote
Most voters must present one accepted form of ID to vote in person. If you cannot present an ID, you’ll be required to sign a brief statement confirming your identity. First-time voters who registered by mail and did not provide ID at registration face stricter requirements, so bring a current photo ID or a document showing your name and address to be safe.
Check or Update Your Registration
Already registered but moved to a new town or changed your name? Update your registration right away. If you move out of your town, you lose your voting rights there and must register in your new town to vote. You can check your current registration status anytime at MyVote.CT.gov.
Registering to vote in Connecticut takes just a few minutes, and the state gives you multiple ways to make it happen. Lock in your registration, confirm your polling place, and show up ready to make your voice heard! In summary, voting in Connecticut has become much more accessible with all these options.