How Do I Register to Vote in Michigan?

MICHIGAN—All eyes are on Michigan this November as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer faces a challenge from anti-abortion Republican Tudor Dixon, and a host of other Trump Republicans attempt to climb their way into power in hundreds of races across the state—including in the state legislature.

But before you head to the polls to decide which candidates are best to lead Michigan into a brighter future, it’s important to understand the basics of how to make your voice heard—including some key steps you need to take and deadlines you have to meet to cast your vote this year.

Let’s start at square one:

All US citizens (who are not incarcerated) can vote in the General Election, just as long as they’ve been a resident of a city or township in Michigan since at least Oct. 9—that’s 30 days before Election Day.

Get registered. 

1.) You may already be registered to vote. Find out right here. 

2.) If not, you can easily register online here. Just make sure you do so by Oct. 24. That’s the last day to register online for the General Election. After that, you’ll have to register in-person at your city or township clerk’s office—which can still be done anytime through 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8.

What do I need to register?

Proof of your age and your Michigan residency. 

That can include a driver’s license or state ID, current utility bills or bank statements that show your address, a recent paycheck, or a document from the government that shows your address. You do not need a photo ID—if you don’t have one, you’ll be asked to sign a form.

What if I’m homeless?

If you don’t have an address, you can still register to vote. Here’s how:

• If you have a state ID or driver’s license and access to the internet, you can register online here through Oct. 24, or in-person at your township or city clerk’s offices. If you don’t have an ID, you must register in-person sometime before Oct. 24 to get signed up.
• You can list your address as a street corner, shelter, park, or any other place you usually stay as your address. You can also list any place that will accept mail for you–including shelters, outreach centers, advocacy groups, or individuals. You’ll need a letter from a shelter, church, or public agency that states your name and that you live in Michigan.
• If someone tells you that you can’t register to vote or you can’t vote because you’re homeless, contact the ACLU or the Secretary of State to report it. The number for the ACLU is 313-578-6800. The number for the Secretary of State is 888-SOS-MICH.

What if I’m a student?

You have options. 

Students from Michigan who attend school in Michigan can register to vote at either their school or home addresses. Students from Michigan who attend school in another state can still register to vote at their home address in Michigan. Students who are not from Michigan but attend school in Michigan can also register to vote at their school addresses in Michigan.