How to Change Voter Registration After Moving

Change your voter registration after an out-of-state move 

When you move to another state and want to vote in any elections, make sure you know how to update your voter registration.  Follow these steps to get started and check out the FAQs for additional information. 

Steps to update voter registration 

Some states have specific deadlines and requirements, but the following steps are generally what’s required: 

1. Check registration deadlines in your new state

As soon as you know you’re moving, check the registration deadlines for the next election. While some states allow registration up to Election Day, many require updates at least 30 days before an election. 

If you can’t register in time for Election Day, you should qualify for an absentee ballot from your previous state to vote in national elections.  

2. Update your ID and state residency

Many states require you to be a state resident with an updated ID before registering to vote. Visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles to update your ID. While you’re there, you can also register your vehicle in the new state (if applicable). 

Review this guide for establishing state residency. 

3. Complete the registration process

In all U.S. states and territories except North Dakota, voter registration is required before participating in an election. Although North Dakota does not require registration, its residents must have a valid ID and proof of residency to vote in elections. 

Depending on where you move, you’ll typically have options to register in person, online or through the mail.

In-person registration 

Many states and territories allow you to register in person when you update your driver’s license or ID at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Just ask. You can also visit the state or territory election office to make the update. 

Note: Some states automatically update voter registration when a change of address is recorded on a state-issued ID. See the list in our FAQs below.

Mail registration

Download and print the National Mail Voter Registration Form for all states except New Hampshire, North Dakota and Wyoming. Fill out the form, then mail it with the proper postage using your state's instructions.

Online registration 

Forty-two states, plus the District of Columbia and Guam, allow online registration. Select your state or territory on the United States Election Assistance Commission’s voter website to view instructions. 

4. Verify the details of your registration

Use the United States Election Assistance Commission’s registration verification form to check your status. You can also contact your state’s Attorney General or election office for help or more information if your registration is rejected. 

FAQs about changing voter registration 

Here are answers to some common questions about registration. 

What information do I need to register to vote?

You typically need the following, but some states require additional information for residency:

• Legal name
• Date of birth
• Driver's license or state ID
• New residential address
• Previous address
• Last four digits of your Social Security number

Can I change my voter registration when I update my driver's license?

Most states allow you to update your voter registration at the same time as a driver's license or state ID, and some take care of the process automatically.

Which states have automatic voter registration through the DMV?
As of 2026, these states have automatic voter registration systems through their DMVs:

• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia

The process will vary in each state. Check the state’s election website for more information.

Note: Washington, D.C., also has automatic voter registration through its DMV.

How soon should I update my registration after moving?

It’s best to do so as soon as possible to ensure your eligibility to vote in the next election.

What if my move is temporary? Can I still vote?  

You can request an absentee ballot if you’re temporarily away from home. This is a good option for deployed military personnel and spouses or students away at college.  

Make sure to request your ballot early from your State Election Office and return it before the election deadline.  

Do I still have to update if I’m moving within the state?  

You will still need to update your voter registration address to match your driver’s license or state-issued ID. 

Is the process different when moving to a U.S. territory?  

Residents in the U.S. territories don’t vote in general elections for President, but they do vote in local elections and some primaries.  

Voter registration and election policies vary by territory. Here are the places to contact for more information: 

• American Samoa: Government of American Samoa Election Office 
• Guam: Guam Election headquarters 
• Northern Mariana Islands: Commonwealth Election Commission 
• Puerto Rico: State Elections Commission Office  
• U.S. Virgin Islands: Elections Systems Office   

Do I need to cancel my previous voter registration after moving?

In most states, you do not need to cancel your previous voter registration, but procedures vary. Check with your state election office for more information if you’re unsure.

Still have questions or need help with your move?   

U-Pack® recommends contacting your local election official or USA.gov for more information about registration and voting.

If you’re still planning your out-of-state move, don’t miss out on your free, no-obligation U-Pack quote online or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077.

Check out our comprehensive moving checklist to stay on track with all your tasks.