Voter Resources

Maryland Voter Registration Guide

Every voice matters. Whether this is your first election or you have moved since the last one, this guide walks you through how to register to vote in Maryland, the deadlines that matter, and the direct links to the Maryland State Board of Elections.

Step 1

Confirm your registration status.

Before you register, confirm whether you are already on the rolls. The Maryland State Board of Elections keeps a public voter lookup tool that shows your registration status, polling place, and district information.

Check your voter registration

Step 2

Choose how to register

You can register online, by mail, or in person. Pick the option that works for you.

Online

Register or update your registration through the Maryland State Board of Elections online portal. You will need a Maryland driver's license or MVA-issued ID, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

By mail

Download and complete a voter registration application, then mail it to your local board of elections. The application must be postmarked by the registration deadline.

Download the application

In person

Register at any Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) office, your local board of elections, or designated state agencies such as the Department of Health, Department of Social Services, and MTA.

Find a registration location

Step 3

Know the deadlines and rules.

Maryland makes it easy to participate, but a few deadlines trip up first-time voters. Here is what to know.

Registration deadline: You must register by 9:00 PM (in person) or 11:59 PM (online) at least 21 days before an election. Mail applications must be postmarked by that deadline.
Eligibility: You can register if you are a U.S. citizen, a Maryland resident, and at least 16 years old. You may vote in a primary election if you will be 18 or older by the general election.
Identification: First-time voters who registered by mail and did not provide an ID number may be asked to show ID at the polls. Acceptable ID includes a Maryland driver's license, MVA ID, current utility bill, bank statement, or government check.
Updating your registration: You must update your registration if you move, change your name, or want to change your party affiliation. Party changes have the same 21-day deadline before a primary.
Does registration expire?: Maryland voter registration does not expire, but it can be moved to 'inactive' status if election mail is returned undeliverable. Confirm your status with the voter lookup tool.

Step 4

Mark your calendar

Election dates change each cycle. Always confirm the current calendar with the state board.

Registration deadline

At least 21 days before Election Day. Online registration closes at 11:59 PM; in person by 9:00 PM; mail applications must be postmarked by that date.

Early voting

Maryland offers early voting at designated centers for several days before each Election Day, including the weekend before. Check your county's early voting locations.

Your vote is your voice.

Registering only takes a few minutes. When you are ready, head straight to the Maryland State Board of Elections.

Visit the Maryland State Board of Elections Get involved with the slate