Teens Pre-register at 16. Vote at 18.
Did you know that 22 million teens will turn 18 by the 2020 presidential elections? While youth have been advocating for their voices to be heard, many young people remain unsure about how to participate in elections. The key is voter registration!
According to the non-partisan Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagementopens a new window, 50% of 18-29 year olds didn't vote in the 2016 presidential election. But youth voting matters!
It matters because:
- Voting is habit-forming
- Young people deserve to be heard
- The youth vote can influence elections
While youth voter registration is much lower than it is for other age groups, when young people are registered they tend to vote in high numbers. All signs point to teen registration being beneficial. That's why the State of California is offering pre-registration!
All eligible 16 and 17 year olds can pre-register to voteopens a new window now. Pre-registration does not change the voting age, which is 18. Instead, it allows eligible Californians ages 16 or 17 to complete the online voter registration form providing sufficient time and opportunity to get ready to vote.
Register by October 22 to Vote in Midterms
If you will be 18 years old on or before election day, then you must register by October 22 to vote in the 2018 midterm elections on Tuesday, November 6! If you are registering by mail, your registration must be postmarked by October 22 and received by October 30.
If the voter registration deadline has passed, you can still conditionally register to vote and cast a provisional ballot in person at the San Mateo County Elections Officeopens a new window through November 6, located at 40 Tower Road, San Mateo, 94402opens a new window.
Remember, voting is habit forming. Start now, and commit to voting for a lifetime!
Ready for More?
For more information on voting, youth voting and more, visit Voter’s Edge Californiaopens a new window; 22x20opens a new window; Cap, Gown, Vote!opens a new window; the American Association of People with Disabilities REV UPopens a new window campaign; Rock the Voteopens a new window and the League of Women Voters of North & Central San Mateo Countyopens a new window.
Registering for the first time? Share with us in the comments below!
