NY Deadline to Register to Vote Before Election Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Today, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) reminded New Yorkers that the deadline to register to vote in this November’s general election is October 26.

New Yorkers can apply in person at the DMV when they complete a driver license, learner permit or non-driver ID transaction. Those who already have a license, permit or non-driver ID can visit the DMV website to apply to register.  

Additional Registration Deadline Information:

• Friday, October 25: The cut-off to apply to register in-person at a DMV office.  

• Friday, October 25, 11:59 p.m.: The deadline to submit an application online.

To apply by mail to your local board of elections, applications must be received no later than October 26 to be eligible to vote in the general election. New Yorkers can also register in person at their local board of elections.

“Voting is a vital and precious piece of our democracy,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “The DMV is proud to be a resource for New Yorkers to apply to register and have their voice heard.”

To apply to register using the DMV website, customers must enter information from their New York State driver license, permit or non-driver ID; their date of birth; current zip code; last four digits of their Social Security Number and their email address.  

The DMV does not approve or deny voter registration applications. Upon completion, DMV sends the voter registration applications to the relevant county board of elections for review and action. Once processed, the county will notify the applicants either that they are registered to vote or that additional information is needed to complete the application. Additionally, New Yorkers can use the New York State Board of Elections' website to check their voter registration status.

In December of 2022, Governor Hochul signed legislation (S.2951A/A.8858A) which allows voters more time to register to vote by extending the registration deadline. In making this change, voter registration deadlines were moved closer to Election Day and into alignment with the standard set by the State Constitution which stipulates that voters must register to vote at least 10 days prior to an election.