Your vote does count, but before you can vote you MUST be registered. This page answers some basic questions about registering to vote and voting.

What are the Voter Registration requirements?

• Must be a US citizen;
• Must be at least 18 years of age by Election Day
• Must have been a resident of the precinct at least 30 days prior to Election Day.

When may I register to vote?

Registration is open year round except during the 27-day period just prior to an election and during the 2-day period after each election (1 day after in Chicago).

Where can I register to vote?

• County Clerk's Office
• Board of election commissioner's Office
• City and Village Offices
• Township Offices
• Precinct committeemen
• Schools
• Public Libraries
• Military Recruitment Offices

The following organizations may be entitled to register people to vote:

• Some Labor Groups
• Some Civic Groups
• Some Corporations

When applying for service at the following:

• Driver's License Facilities
• Department of Healthcare & Family Services
• Department of Employment Security

What is “Grace Period” Registration?

“Grace Period” Registration is an extension of the period of time for a voter to register to vote, or to update their registration information. This “Grace Period” Registration extends registration from the normal close of registration up through the 14th day before the election. Once registered, this voter may cast a ballot during this “Grace Period” at the election authority’s office or at a location specifically designated for this purpose by the election authority, or by mail, at the discretion of the election authority.

What forms of identification may be needed when I register to vote?

Two forms of identification with at least one showing your current residence address is needed when you register in-person. If you register by mail sufficient proof of identity is required by submission of your driver's license number or State identification card number. If you don't have either of those, verification by the last 4 digits of the your social security number, a copy of a current and valid photo identification, or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check, or other government document that shows your name and address will be required.

Will I automatically be registered to vote when I renew my driver’s license?

No, but you will be given the opportunity to register to vote. If you are already registered to vote, there is no need to register again unless you change your name or move.

Can I register to vote by mailing an application to my election office?

Yes. Under federal law, citizens may apply to register to vote by mailing in an application. The applications are available at some public and private facilities where you live. Also, applications can be downloaded from the Illinois State Board of Elections website at: www.elections.il.gov. When you apply for registration using the mail-in form, it must be postmarked prior to the close of registration.

If I mail in an application to vote, can I vote by absentee ballot?

If you are disabled, in the military or provide your election authority with sufficient proof of identity, persons who register by mail may receive an absentee ballot.

When can I consider myself officially registered to vote?

As soon as you receive a voter ID card in the mail, you can consider yourself registered. If you do not receive an ID card within 3 weeks after you registered, contact your election authority.

What if I change my name after being registered?

If you changed your name more than 27 days before the election and did not re-register, you cannot vote - unless you live in the same precinct. If you live in the same precinct, you may sign an affidavit at the polling place attesting that you are the same person, in which case you will be given the full ballot.