4. I’ve never voted before. What do I need to do?

The two basic steps for voting are (1) registering to vote, and then (2) voting either in person or by an absentee ballot if you will be unable to attend a voting center on election day. In order to register to vote, you must be a US citizen, and be aged 18 by the election date. 

If you will be studying or travelling abroad on election day, you can request a special overseas absentee ballot using a form called the FPCA (Federal Post Card Application), which gives special rights to US citizens abroad either temporarily or permanently.  Our website walks you through the process of filling out and submitting your FPCA directly to your Local Election Official, as well as the specific requirements for your state. Just go to: Students.VoteFromAbroad.org, select your state, and follow the prompts.

Still have questions? Click on the red icon in the lower right corner to email our team.