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As November approaches, we are in the home stretch toward Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3! To help energize first-time voters, our #Take30 virtual chat last week shared important election information about voting and the importance of youth voices in the 2020 election and beyond. Dr. Patricia Kapunan from Childrens National Hospital helped youth prepare for the election by sharing a voting guide for teens and Robyn Lingo from Mikva Challenge DC encouraged youth to participate in a fun election-related engagement game called "Great Electoral Race." LaDawne White from the D.C. Board of Elections also covered critical information for how young people can register to vote.

But whether you’re a first-time voter or ballot box regular, it’s so important that every District resident make their voice heard this election. The key is to make a plan to vote—via mail or in person—so that you’re well prepared to cast your ballot.

Below are a few important reminders and resources to help you exercise your civic duty.

Important Dates in D.C.

• Oct. 13: Deadline to register to vote (Same-day registration information below)
• Oct. 27 – Nov. 2: Early voting
• Nov. 3: Election Day (mail-in ballots must be postmarked or dropped off at an approved location by this date)

Register to Vote / Check Voter Registration
District residents can check their voter registration online and register to vote online or by mail. The D.C. Board of Elections is also hosting several in-person registration events. Same-day registration is available during early voting and on Election Day, but you’ll need to bring proof of residency.

Voter Registration for Incarcerated or Returning Citizens
All District residents can vote regardless of criminal history or incarceration status. The D.C. Board of Elections has sent voter registration forms to 2,400 residents serving felony sentences and returning citizens can check out these Election FAQs to learn how to register to vote.

Consider Voting by Mail Safely, Securely, and Reliably
Voting by mail is safe, secure, and reliable, and it is a great way to stay safe during COVID-19. All active voters will receive a mail-in ballot at their registered address for the November election. You can confirm your registered address here. Once you’ve filled out your mail-in ballot, you can return it by mail using the enclosed prepaid envelope, but it must be postmarked by Election Day and arrive no later than Nov. 13. The signature on your mail-in ballot must match the signature on file with the Board of Elections. Your Board of Elections’ signature is the same signature that is on your driver’s license. You can also drop off your ballot at one of dozens of drop box locations before 8pm on Election Day or at one of the vote centers during early voting or Election Day. Residents can also track the status of their mail-in ballots online.

Mail-in ballots will start to arrive during the first week of October, but if you do not receive a ballot by October 21, officials say you should plan to vote in person.

Review In-Person Vote Centers
If you don't plan to vote by mail, voters can find convenient early vote and Election Day vote centers online, which will be open from 8:30am to 7:00pm during early voting and from 7:00am to 8:00pm on Election Day. Registered voters can vote at any of the vote centers during early voting and on Election Day. This November’s election is projected to have historic voter turnout, so if you’re voting in person, vote early if you can!

Help Out During the Election
Want to help District residents vote? Apply to volunteer as an election poll worker! For more information, call 202-741-5283 or email electionworker@dcboe.org.