Chapter 1 – Why Care About State & Local Government?
1.2 How to Register to Vote in Ohio
Throughout this textbook, you will learn about ways you get involved in the political processes you care about. So, before we go any further, let’s start with the basics. Let’s make sure everyone knows how to register to vote.
You must be registered to vote to participate in elections, which allows you to help elect leaders and shape policies that align with your values and interests.
Eligibility to Vote in Ohio
To register to vote in Ohio, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be at least 18 years old on or before the day of the general election. (You can register to vote at 17 if you will be 18 on or before the day of the next general election.)
- Be a resident of Ohio for at least 30 days immediately before the election.
- Not be incarcerated (in jail or prison) for a felony conviction. (If you have been convicted of a felony, your voting rights are restored upon your release.)
- Not be declared incompetent for voting purposes by a probate court.
- Not be permanently disenfranchised for violations of election laws.
How to Register
One of the easiest ways to register to vote is online through the Ohio Secretary of State’s website. You will need to provide some personal information, such as your name, address, date of birth, and either your Ohio driver’s license number or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Here’s the link for more information and to register online: https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/.
Other Registration Methods
In addition to online registration, you can register to vote by:
Mail – Download and complete a voter registration form from the Ohio Secretary of State’s website and mail it to your county Board of Elections.
In Person – Visit your county Board of Elections, any Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office, or any designated agency providing public assistance or disability programs to register in person.
Registration Deadline
You must register to vote or update your voter registration no later than 30 days before an election.
Keeping Your Registration Updated
Ensure your voter registration is up-to-date, especially if you have moved or changed your name.
You can check your registration status and update your information online through the Ohio Secretary of State’s website: https://voterlookup.ohiosos.gov/.
By taking these steps, you ensure your voice is heard in the democratic process. Remember, your vote matters!
Foundational Facts
The right to vote is guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution, specifically through amendments such as the 15th, 19th, 24th, and 26th, which expanded voting rights over time.
The Ohio Constitution further protects this right at a local level, as outlined in Article V, Section 1, which establishes that every qualified citizen has the right to vote in elections.
