Updating

How to update or change your voter registration

Your registration should match your current life — your address, your name, and where you live now. Here's when to update it and how.

Last reviewed September 18, 2026

When you should update your registration

  • You moved — even across town, your address on file may be wrong.
  • You changed your name — so your record matches your ID.
  • Your party preference changed — in states that record it.

Not sure if an update is needed? Start by checking your current status.

How to make the change

Depending on your state, you can usually update your registration in one of three ways:

Online

Many states let you update your address or details through their official election website.

By mail

In most states the National Mail Voter Registration Form can be used to update your name or address, or to change your party. See our guide to registering by mail for how to send it.

In person

You can typically update your record at your local election office, and in many states at motor-vehicle offices.

Moving within a state vs. to another state

Within the same state: you usually just update your address with your state or local election office.
To a different state: you generally need to register again in your new state and meet its residency and deadline rules.

Mind the deadline

Updates are subject to the same cutoffs as new registrations, so don't leave it to the last minute — see registration deadlines, then confirm the details on your state's official page.

Find official information for your state

Registration rules and deadlines are set by each state. Choose yours to open its official government registration page.

Prefer a full directory? See official links for all 50 states, D.C. and U.S. territories, or start from the EAC state resources.

Quick answers

How do I change my voter registration address?

If you move within the same state, you usually update your address with your state or local election office — often online, by mail, or in person. If you move to a different state, you generally register again in the new state. Check your state’s official page for the exact method and deadline.

How do I change the name on my voter registration?

After a legal name change, update your registration so your record matches your ID. Depending on your state you can often do this online, by mail with the National Mail Voter Registration Form, or in person.

Do I need to re-register if I move to another state?

Usually yes. Moving to a new state typically means registering again there and meeting its residency and deadline requirements. Do it as soon as you can after moving.

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