Taking part in the electoral process is one of our most basic and important rights as American citizens. It gives us a say on crucial issues that may affect us, and allows us a voice in choosing our representatives in local, state, and federal government. Every American citizen should have the opportunity to vote if they so choose, but in order to do so must first register to vote. Luckily, registering to vote is a fairly quick and easy process. There are numerous official places of voter registration nearby, including right here at the Deerfield Public Library. In addition, qualified candidates now even have the option of registering to vote online without ever leaving the comforts of home. For information on completing your voter registration, read on!
Who can register to vote?
According to the Lake County Clerk’s website, you must meet the following qualifications in order to register:
- Be a United States citizen.
- Be at least 18 years of age on or before the next election (17 year olds may register and vote in even-year primaries if their 18th birthday occurs before the date of the general election).
- Live in your election precinct at least 30 days immediately prior to an election.
- Not be convicted and in jail.
- Not claim the right to vote anywhere else.
To check if you are already registered to vote, click here.
What will you need in order to register?
- In order to register at an official place of voter registration (with a deputy registrar), you will need two forms of identification. At least one of the two forms of I.D. must show your name and current address (ex. Illinois driver’s license or state I.D. card), and only one form of I.D. may be a piece of mail for a contractual service addressed and delivered to you.
- In order to register using the Illinois Online Voter Application you will need a valid Illinois driver’s license or state I.D. card.
Where can you register?
Happily, it is now easier than ever to register to vote because you have the options to:
- Visit one of the numerous voter registration sites in the area (for a complete list of locations in Lake County, click here).
- Register online using the Illinois Online Voter Application.
- Register to vote by mailing in your application directly to the County Clerk (for more information, click here).
Things to keep in mind:
Registration is open all year except during the 27 days prior to an election (and reopens the second day following an election). While you will be unable to register at any of the Official Places of Voter Registration in the 27 days prior to an election, limited grace period registration is available at the County Clerk’s Office. Call or visit the Lake County Clerk’s Office for details.
As always, feel free to call or visit us at the Deerfield Public Library if you have any questions. Happy voting!
