Voting is a key right and responsibility for U.S. citizens, but doing so without meeting eligibility requirements carries serious legal risks.
Ensure you meet these requirements:
• Be a U.S. citizen – by (1) birth in the U.S., (2) birth abroad to a U.S. citizen parent, or (3) through naturalization.
• Meet your state’s residency requirements – check your specific state’s rules.
• Be at least 18 years old by election day – some states (including California) allow early registration if you'll be 18 by election day.
• Register by your state’s deadline – missing this means you’re ineligible.
In addition, certain states limit voting rights based on:
• Felony convictions – in California, you must not be currently serving a prison term for a felony conviction.
• Mental incapacity – in California, you cannot be declared mentally incompetent to vote by a court.
If you vote without meeting these requirements, even accidentally, it’s a federal offense that can lead to fines, jail time, or even deportation. The flyer below provides more detailed information on eligibility and the voting process.
