District of Columbia Voting Guide
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Steven J. Ellison, Esq. | Last reviewed October 31, 2022
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Get answers to your questions about voting through FindLaw’s District of Columbia Voter Guide. We address your eligibility to vote, voter registration, absentee ballots, how to find your polling place, what to bring to the polls, accommodations, and what to do if you see illegal activity at the polls.
The citizens of Washington, D.C. do not have representatives in Congress, but they do elect local officials, and the voting processes in local elections and presidential elections, for the most part, are similar to the voting processes in other areas of the county. Learn how to register, where to vote, and more in this FindLaw.com guide.
Am I eligible to vote in Washington D.C.?
You are eligible to vote in Washington, D.C. if you:
- Are a citizen of the United States of America
- Have been a resident of the District of Columbia for at least 30 days prior to Election Day
- Are at least 18 years of age on Election Day (You can, however, pre-register to vote at 16. You can also vote in primary elections at 17, if you will be 18 by the general election.)
You are ineligible to vote if you:
- Are a felon serving a prison sentence
- Have been judged by a court of law to be legally incompetent
- Are not a voting resident of another state or territory in the U.S.
Where Do I Vote?
Find your D.C. voting place through the Board of Elections.
How to Register in Washington, D.C.
There are several ways to register to vote in Washington, D.C. This includes registering:
At the Polls
Bring proof of residence for same-day voter registration at the polls.
Voting Resources
Your vote counts. Take the time to learn how and when to vote.
