- How do I register?
- How do I get an absentee ballot?
- Are there new laws that will affect where I can vote?
- Where is my polling place?
Still have questions? Check out the county voter website.
Voting tips for students (download this informative pamphlet)
U.S. citizens, at least 18 years of age, who are residents of Michigan, can register to vote in any of the following locations at least 30 days before the election:
- Local city, county or township clerk's office
- Secretary of State branch office
- Family Independence Ageny
- Department of Community Health
- You can also register to vote when you renew your driver's license.
To register by mail, contact your county, city or township clerk's office.
For more information, visit the county voter website.
How do I get an absentee ballot?
Eligible voters may request an absentee ballot if you:
- are unable to vote without assistance
- are 60 years of age or older
- expect to be absent from your city or township on election day
- are in jail, awaiting arraignment or trial
- have been assigned to work as a precinct inspector in a precinct other than where you are registered; or
- are unable to attend the polls because of religious beliefs
In most communities, a written application is required to obtain an absentee ballot. You do not need a special form.
The city or township clerk will need the following:
- Your registered name
- Your registered address
- The address to which the ballot is to be sent
- The reason for requesting an absentee ballot
- Your signature
It is wise to apply 1-2 months prior to the election.
If you have any questions, please contact your local (city or township) clerk.
Are there new laws that will affect where I can vote?
Attention Students: A new law requires your driver's license address to match your voter registration address. Previously you could register to vote where you attend college without changing the address on your drivers license. This means that if you have obtained a new drivers license in Michigan or renewed an existing license, your voter registration has been automatically changed to the address on your license. This address can be changed again, by going to any Secretary of State branch office, as long as it is taken care of at least 30 days before the election. Otherwise you will need to vote absentee if your home address is too far to get to on election day. Also, if you have registered to vote by mail you must vote in person the first time, or else pick up an absentee ballot in person from your city/township clerk.
Look up your polling place through the county voter website, or check with your city, township or county clerk's office.