The right to vote is a fundamental cornerstone of any democratic society. It is a means for citizens to express their opinions, hold their elected officials accountable, and shape the future of their communities. Every citizen of legal age and in good standing has the right to register to vote and have their voice heard in the electoral process. Whether you’re a first-time voter, have recently moved to Kentucky, or are a long-time resident, the attorneys at Skeeter’s, Bennett, Wilson, and Humphrey want to ensure you can exercise your voting rights in the Bluegrass State. Here's what you need to know to register and cast your ballot in the next election.
Voter Registration Requirements
To be eligible to vote, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a Kentucky resident for at least 28 days before the election
- Be 18 years old by the date of the next general election
- Have no felony convictions (unless your rights have been restored; check your status here)
- Not currently be deemed mentally incompetent in a court of law
- Not claim the right to vote in any other state
Additionally, if you're 17 years old during the May primary but will turn 18 before the November election, you're eligible to vote in the May primary election.
Ways to Register
The Bluegrass State provides eligible voters with three ways to register: online, in person, and by mail.
- Online. Visit the Kentucky State Board of Elections website and follow the prompts to register to vote online. Know your Social Security number (SSN) and Kentucky driver's license (or state ID card) number -- or have your cards handy. You'll need this information to complete the registration.
- In person. Pick up a voter registration form at your county clerk's office. Once you've completed the form, please submit it to the same office. Remember that you'll need the same forms of ID as above: SSN and driver's license (or state ID card) numbers.
- By mail. Download and print the mail-in voter registration form. Send the completed form to the Kentucky State Board of Elections at this address: 140 Walnut St., Frankfort, KY 40601.
Whether you're registering online, by mail, or in person, do so 29 days before the next election.
Exercising Your Right to Vote
Election Day in the United States is always on a Tuesday, specifically following the first Monday in November. That means it can be anywhere from November 2 to November 8. For more information, view Kentucky Election Calendars and Schedule.
Early voting typically starts on the third Tuesday before Election Day, ends on the Thursday before Election Day, and usually lasts 14 days, including weekends. However, the exact dates and times for early voting can vary depending on the election and the county you're in. It's always good to check with your county clerk's office or the Kentucky State Board of Elections for the most up-to-date information. Early voting is open to all registered voters, regardless of the reason.
On Election Day, polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time. You can vote if you're in line at your polling station by 6:00 p.m. It's important to note that you must be a registered voter in Kentucky to participate in the election. So remember to register beforehand if you still need to.
Think you're registered to vote but need clarification? Want information on voting by mail (absentee voting)? Check your voter registration and absentee ballot status.
