Registering to vote is one of the most direct ways to engage in democracy, but if you're ineligible to vote, you can still make a huge impact by helping others register!

Registering early to vote ensures that you're prepared well in advance of election day and can avoid any potential issues with deadlines or last-minute challenges. In Washington, you also have the convenience of same-day registration, allowing you to register and vote on the same day if needed. If you're eligible, registering early gives you more time to review your ballot, research candidates and measures, and feel confident about your decisions.

For those who can’t vote, helping friends and peers register is just as impactful — ensuring that every voice in your community is heard, and your influence contributes to a more engaged and informed electorate. Whether you’re registering to vote yourself or helping others, your efforts play a key role in strengthening our democracy!

Register to Vote

Registering to vote is the first step in making your voice heard in local, state, and national elections. The process is quick, easy, and can be done in just a few minutes. The Huskies Vote website provides a comprehensive resource for UW students looking to get involved in the democratic process. Whether you're a Washington resident or an out-of-state student, this page guides you through the registration process with detailed instructions, key deadlines, and links to official voter registration sites. It also covers:

• Online Registration: For Washington State residents, you can register online in just a few clicks through the Washington Secretary of State’s website. All you need is a state-issued ID or driver’s license.
• Register by Mail: If you prefer, you can print a voter registration form and send it by mail. The form and mailing instructions are available on the Huskies Vote website.
• In-Person Registration: Visit your county elections office or designated registration site to register in person.
• Out-of-State Registration: If you’re a student from another state, there are links to voter registration websites for all 50 states, so you can easily register and vote in your home state.
• Same-Day Registration: In Washington, you can register to vote and cast your ballot on Election Day. This option is available at county elections offices or designated voting centers.
• Voter Eligibility: The website also provides a full breakdown of voter eligibility, making sure you know exactly what’s required to participate in the upcoming elections.

Take the first step toward making an impact — register to vote today!

Explore Husky Vote Website

Register to Vote

Help Others Register to Vote

If you're already registered or ineligible to vote, you can still play a significant role in the democratic process by helping others get registered. Supporting friends, classmates, and community members ensures that more voices are heard, contributing to a stronger and more representative democracy. Here are some best practices and tips to effectively help others register to vote:

• Start Early
  • Encourage people to register well before Election Day. Early registration ensures that they have plenty of time to resolve any issues, verify their eligibility, and familiarize themselves with the voting process.
• Know the Requirements
  • Make sure you understand the voter registration rules for your state, especially if you're helping students who may come from out of state. Know the deadlines, ID requirements, and any specific criteria that might affect their ability to register. The Huskies Vote website provides a breakdown for Washington residents and links to other state resources.
• Be Ready with Resources
  • Keep voter registration forms, helpful websites, and key deadlines handy. Direct friends and peers to online registration platforms, such as the Washington State voter registration portal or other state-specific platforms. Providing clear instructions will make the process seamless for others.
• Organize a Registration Drive
  • Hosting a voter registration drive is a powerful way to help multiple people register. You can coordinate with campus groups, community centers, or even local coffee shops to set up a booth where people can easily sign up. Provide information on both in-person and online registration options.
• Leverage Social Media
  • Use social media to remind people of upcoming deadlines, share registration links, and encourage your network to get registered. You can create engaging posts or stories highlighting why it's important to vote and how easy the registration process is.
• Offer to Help with Forms
  • Some people might find the registration process confusing or intimidating, especially if they’re first-time voters. Offer to walk them through the forms, explain what’s needed, and double-check that everything is filled out correctly.
• Educate and Empower
  • Registering is just the first step. Encourage those you help to learn about candidates, policies, and ballot measures before they vote. Direct them to nonpartisan voter guides or encourage them to attend candidate forums and debates.
• Remind Them of Deadlines
  • Even after someone registers, it’s important to stay on top of deadlines. Remind your friends when absentee ballot requests, early voting windows, and Election Day are approaching so they don’t miss their opportunity to vote.