Michigan elections FAQ: When’s the last day to register to vote?
- Bridge Michigan is answering questions from readers throughout the campaign season.
- One reader asks: What’s the latest I can register to vote in the general election?
- Michigan offers several options for voter registration, including on the day of the election
As election season fast approaches, Bridge Michigan is answering questions from readers about candidates, contests and voting rules as part of our elections FAQ series. Have a question? Ask yours here.
James from Holland asks: What is the latest I can register to vote in the general election?
Long story short, you can register to vote in person at your local clerk’s office through Election Day itself – until polls close at 8 p.m. This year, the Michigan primary is on Aug. 6 and the general election is Nov. 5.
Michigan is one of roughly half of the 50 states that allow same-day voter registration, which began in 2020. While the Secretary of State’s office encourages Michigan voters to register to vote as early as possible, it isn’t too late until 8pm on Election Day. Read more here.
Related:
- Michigan elections FAQ: Are noncitizens registered to vote when obtaining state ID?
- Michigan elections FAQ: More registered voters than eligible voters?
- Michigan elections FAQ: Can undocumented immigrants vote here?
However, to register online or by mail, voters must vote at least 15 days prior to the election. To register online, eligible citizens need their Michigan driver’s license or state ID number. If a citizen doesn’t have this, they can still vote via mail or in person through completing a paper application.
Within 14 days of the election, which includes on Election day, the only way for voters to register is in-person though visiting the local clerk’s office with proof of residency documentation. This might include college or university documents, a Michigan driver’s license, a bank statement or another government document.
Since 2019, Michigan has automatically registered eligible voters when they obtain a state ID or Michigan driver’s license. If you aren’t sure whether or not you’re registered to vote, you can check your status on the state’s voter information site.
See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:
- “In order for this information to be accurate and unbiased it must be underwritten by its readers, not by special interests.” - Larry S.
- “Not many other media sources report on the topics Bridge does.” - Susan B.
- “Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days.” - Mark S.
If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time!