Registering to Vote

In Minnesota, you must be registered before you can vote. You may either pre-register to vote at least 21 days before Election Day or register at your polling location on Election Day.

Current Registration Status

You can check your current registration status online through the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State. Your voter registration remains current until you change your residence, your name, or do not vote in four consecutive years. 

Voter registration applications are available online at the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State’s page.

Late Registration

If you did not register before Election Day, use any of the following proof of residence options to register at your polling place.

Option 1: ID with Current Name & Address

Accepted IDs:

  • A valid Minnesota Driver’s license, learners permit, Minnesota ID card or receipt for any of these
  • A Tribal ID card with your name, address, photo and signature

Option 2: Photo ID Plus a Document with Current Name & Address

The ID can be expired, and the document can also be shown electronically on a device (smartphone, tablet, etc.)

Accepted IDs:

  • Minnesota high school ID card
  • Minnesota university, college or technical college ID card
  • Tribal ID card with the name, signature, and photo of the voter
  • United States Military ID card
  • United States Passport
  • Driver’s license, state ID card or learner’s permit issued by any state

Acceptable documents:

  • Banking or credit card
  • Bill, account or start of service statement due or dated within 30 days of the election for:
  • Current student fee statement
  • Electric, gas or water
  • Internet Services
  • Phone (landline, cell, VOIP, etc.)
  • Rent or mortgage payments
  • Solid waste or sewer services
  • TV (cable, satellite, etc.)
  • Residential lease or rental agreement (must be valid through Election Day)

Option 3: Registered Voter Who Can Confirm Your Name & Address

A registered voter from your precinct can go with you to the polling place to sign an oath confirming your address. A registered voter can vouch for up to eight others.

Option 4: College Student ID - If a Student Housing List was Provided

College students can use a student photo ID card if their college provided a student housing list to election officials.

Option 5: Valid Registration in the Same Precinct

If you were previously registered in the precinct but changed names or moved within the same precinct, you only need to tell the election official your previous name or address, no additional documentation is needed.

Option 6: Notice of Late Registration

If you pre-registered to vote too close to Election Day, you may have received a Notice of Late Registration in the mail. This notice can be used to register.

Option 7: Staff Person of a Residential Facility

If you live in a residential facility, a facility staff person can go with you to the polling place to confirm your address.