For those wanting to cast a ballot in the March primary election, Monday, Feb. 2, is the deadline for voter registration.
According to VoteTexas.gov, “Texas law requires eligible voters to register by the 30th day before Election Day.” Here’s what you need to know about getting registered:
Where and how do I register?
Texans can register to vote three ways: online, by mail, or in person.
Online applications are completed through the Texas Secretary of State website. According to Texas.gov, this online form must then be printed, signed and mailed to your county’s Voter Registrar’s office, as Texas voting is county-based. You can find yours here.
Mail-in forms can be found at your county’s Voter Registrar’s office as well as public libraries, high schools and government offices such as the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Workforce Commission and Department of Public Safety. The application must be postmarked 30 days before Election Day.
In-person applications are completed at your county’s Voter Registrar’s office. Those renewing a driver’s license can simultaneously register to vote.
Am I already registered?
If you suspect you might be registered but can’t quite remember, you can check your registration status through this Texas Secretary of State webpage. All you have to do is enter your name, date of birth, and either your driver’s license number, voter identification number or county and zip code.
Checking voter registration is also helpful for anyone who has moved, as an old address might be listed. In that case, you will need to submit an address change request.
How do I update my voter information?
The Texas Secretary of State has a separate webpage for voter name and address changes. Once completed, a new voter certificate will be mailed to you within 30 days.
Does my registration expire?
According to a compilation of state voting rules from CBS News, voters in Texas “are required to re-register to vote if they move counties or cancel their registration but want to vote again.” Name changes are also grounds for a registration update, “though not doing so would not prevent someone from voting.”