09/11/2024 | Press release | Archived content
In preparation for Election Day on November 5, 2024, Children's National Hospital and Rise and Shine have developed a guide to help inform you and your teen about voting.
How to vote in five easy steps
Are you ready to vote?
Are you 16 years old?
Do you have proof of residency?
Do you want to register to vote online or by-mail?
Can I vote from home?
✓ Yes! You can absolutely vote from home by mail-in or absentee ballot. You will need to go online to request a ballot (details below).
What is the difference between an absentee ballot and mail-in ballot?
✓ An absentee ballot is generally used in every state to refer to a ballot filled out by a voter who cannot, for many reasons, go to a voting location on Election Day. Absentee ballots must be requested by the voter to be mailed out.
✓ A mail-in ballot is used more broadly to refer to ballots sent through the mail. Mail-in ballots typically refer to states where the ballots are sent to all registered voters whether they requested one or not.
Can I vote early and do I need a voter ID?
✓ Yes! You can vote early by mailing in or dropping your ballot off at a Drop Box location.
✓ If you are a first-time voter who is voting by mail using a mail-in ballot or absentee ballot, you MUST include proof of residency documentation with your ballot.
What are acceptable forms to use for proof of residency?
*The issue, bill or statement date must be within 90 days of Election Day.
How do I find out who the candidates are?
✓ You can download a sample ballot from your state's election site to find out the candidates who are running for office.
✓ Follow @VOTE411 on Instagram to learn more about candidates and your specific voting information (for example polling place, sample ballot and more).
What address should I use if I am going away for college?
In-State Students: Will you be living at home or on campus? Remember, when you register to vote, use the address you consider your home address; this is called your registered address. This will determine your district and who you are eligible to vote for.
Out-of-State Students: Are you leaving your home state to attend school? You will need to decide if you will remain a resident of your home state or become a resident of the new state. Remember that you may only be registered to vote in one state and need proof of residency in that state.
How do I sign up for reminders about important deadlines?
Visit Rock the Vote to sign up for reminders of upcoming election dates and deadlines in your area, so that you never miss an election.
Are there additional resources for voting?
Please note: The information provided is in no way intended to reflect an endorsement for, or opposition to, any candidate or political party.