College Voter FAQ
Everything you need to know about registering and voting in Pennsylvania.
Registration
Can I register to vote online?
Yes. Pennsylvania offers online voter registration at https://iwillvote.com. The process is quick and easy.
- You need to be a US citizen and a resident of Pennsylvania and your election district at least 30 days before the next election
- You need to be at least 18 years of age on the day of the next election
- You don’t need a PA driver’s license or PA ID card to register to vote
Can I use my dorm/fraternity address?
Yes. You can use your college address when registering to vote. If you are using a dorm address, please be sure to include the street address in addition to your mailbox number.
What if I’m not sure if I’m registered?
No problem. You can check your registration status online at https://iwillvote.com by entering your name and date of birth. It’s a good idea to verify your registration before the deadline to avoid any surprises on Election Day.
When is the last day I can register to vote?
The registration deadline is October 21st. Make sure to register before this date to be eligible to vote in the upcoming election.
Do I need to have/switch to a PA Driver’s License to register?
No. You can register with other forms of ID, such as a U.S. passport or a student ID, as long as you meet the residency requirements.
I won’t turn 18 until Election Day, Nov. 5th; can I still register?
Yes. As long as you turn 18 by Election Day, you can register to vote before the deadline.
Can I switch my registration from my home state to Pennsylvania?
Yes. If you are a college student who attends college in Pennsylvania, you can register where you live while attending school.
Do I need to unregister from my previous voting address in order to switch to Pennsylvania?
No. When you register to vote in Pennsylvania, your registration in your previous state will automatically be updated.
I currently live on campus but will be moving to another apartment in the fall; do I need to change my voter registration when I move?
Yes. If you move within Pennsylvania, you’ll need to update your voter registration with your new address.
I will be out-of-state on an internship (or out of the country for study abroad) for the fall semester; can I use my last college address for my voter registration?
Yes. You can use your last Pennsylvania college address for voter registration even if you’re temporarily out of state.
Can my parents still claim me as a dependent if I am registered to vote in a different jurisdiction?
Yes. Voting in a different jurisdiction does not affect your dependency status for tax purposes.
Does registering in PA mean I have to file taxes in PA?
No. Registering to vote does not change your tax filing requirements.
Voting in Person
Can I vote early in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Pennsylvania offers in-person early voting through Oct. 29. You can go to your county election office to request, fill out, and submit your ballot all at once before Election Day. Find your local county office and list of other designated locations by going to http://vote.pa.gov/county.
Do I need to bring an ID to vote?
Maybe. If you’re voting in Pennsylvania for the first time, you’ll need to show a form of ID. Acceptable forms include a PA driver’s license, PennDOT ID card, U.S. passport, student ID, or other government-issued ID. If you’re a returning voter, you usually won’t need to show ID.
How do I find my polling place?
It’s easy. You can look up your polling location at http://vote.pa.gov/polls by entering your address. It’s important to confirm your polling place ahead of time, as locations can change. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov 5 and polls are open 7am – 8pm
Voting by Mail
Can I vote by mail?
Yes. The deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot is October 29. Ballots must be returned to your county elections office by 8:00 pm on election day, November 5. You can apply online at http://vote.pa.gov/MailBallot. Studying abroad? Go to https://vote.pa.gov to find more information about special procedures and deadlines!
Special Circumstances
Can I vote if I have a criminal record?
Yes, with some exceptions. Most people with criminal records can vote, but it depends on the specifics of your case. You may want to consult with the Voter Assistance Hotline (877-868-3772) for guidance.
What if there’s a problem at my polling place?
Stay calm and ask for help. If you encounter any issues, speak with a poll worker or contact the Voter Protection Hotline (877-868-3772) immediately. You have the right to vote, and there are resources available to ensure you can. For example, if a poll worker tells you that you cannot vote, but you believe you are registered and eligible, you have the right to demand a provisional ballot.
What if I have accessibility needs at the polls?
Your polling place should be accessible. If you need assistance, poll workers are there to help, and you can bring someone with you to assist in voting. If you encounter any issues, contact the Voter Assistance Hotline (877-868-3772).