Pennsylvania’s voter registration process explained
Pennsylvania’s voter registration process involves multiple steps to verify identity and confirm eligibility before individuals can vote.
According to the Department of State, voters are required to provide a Pennsylvania driver’s license number, state ID number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number when registering to vote and every time they vote by mail.
Under state law, every voter registration applicant must swear they are a U.S. citizen. If false information is submitted, individuals could face jail time, fines of up to $15,000, and/or deportation.
To register to vote in Pennsylvania, applicants must meet three requirements:They must be a U.S. citizen for at least 30 days.A resident of Pennsylvania for at least 30 days.At least 18 years old on or before the date of the next election.How Pennsylvania verifies voter eligibility
Citizens can also register at PennDOT centers using automatic voter registration, often referred to as the Motor Voter Law. If someone meets the eligibility requirements, they are automatically presented with the opportunity to register.
Once an application is submitted, it is sent to the county election office, where eligibility is reviewed before the individual is officially registered to vote.
Finally, when voting in person at a new polling place for the first time, new voters must present appropriate identification.