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New York Voting Guide

Whether you're a first-time voter in New York or need a refresher for an upcoming election, getting info to save time on Election Day is helpful. Unsure if you need to register to vote? Wondering where to go to vote? Keep reading to learn more about voting in New York.

Voting In New York State

New Yorkers have many options to cast a ballot and vote for their preferred candidates in the following types of elections:

  • Federal presidential elections
  • Primary elections
  • State elections (state senate)
  • Local elections
  • Special elections
  • Choice voting

Ranked-Choice Voting

As of January 1, 2021, New York City (NYC) moved to ranked-choice voting in the following special and primary elections for the following offices:

  • Mayor
  • City Council
  • Public Advocate
  • Comptroller

Under New York City's ranked-choice voting system, registered voters can rank up to five candidates for any of the offices mentioned above. The candidate who receives more than 50 percent of the votes wins the office. If no candidate gets more than 50 percent of votes, election officials continue counting in rounds. They select a winner through a process of elimination.

Am I Eligible To Vote in New York?

You can vote in New York elections if:

  • You are a U.S. citizen at least 18 years of age
  • You have been a resident of New York for at least 30 days before Election Day

You cannot vote in New York elections if:

  • A court has found you to be mentally incompetent
  • You are currently in prison or on parole for a felony

In 2021, New York State restored voting rights for anyone with a felony conviction. This includes persons on parole or under post-release supervision. As long as they are not currently incarcerated, they can vote.

Where Do I Vote?

You can check your voter registration status and get your polling place location by searching your first and last name on the New York State Board of Elections website.

FIND OUT WHERE TO VOTE

Registering to Vote in New York State

There are several ways to register to vote in New York. This includes registering:

In Person

Visit the county board of elections or any New York State agency-based voter registration center.

By Phone

Call 1-800-FOR-VOTE and request a voter registration form over the phone.

At the DMV

Visit the DMV in person to register, or use the DMV website if you already have DMV-issued identification.

By Mail

Add your name to the New York voter direct mailing list to receive a mail application.

New York's Voter Registration Deadlines

Unlike other states, New York has different voter registration deadlines for every election. The best way to get info is by visiting the New York voter registration deadline page and finding the election you want to register for (primary, general election, etc.)

Absentee Voting in New York State

You must meet specific qualifications to vote by absentee ballot in New York. These qualifications include:

  • You're a resident of New York but not available in your county on Election Day
  • You're sick, injured, or temporarily disabled
  • You're currently in jail or confined in prison for any offense other than a felony

If you meet the qualifications, you must submit an absentee ballot application and mail it to your county board of elections office.

What Do I Need To Bring to the Polls In New York?

New York does not require a photo ID to vote. In some instances, election officials may ask first-time voters to present some form of ID. If you're a first-time voter in New York, consider bringing a valid driver's license or photo ID to vote.

What Special Accommodations Are Available?

The New York State Board of Elections accommodates all voters, including those who need special assistance. Voters with print disabilities can submit an accessible ballot request to vote in person using an Accessible Ballot Marking voting machine at the poll site. Other accessible options for people with disabilities include accessible parking and ramps at voting sites.

If a disability or illness prevents you from voting in person on Election Day, you can register to vote absentee.

Get Legal Help Voting in New York

You have an unequivocal right to vote as long you meet the eligibility requirements. If an official violates your rights, a civil rights attorney can help. They are experts in voting rights and can give you solid legal advice.

Additional Information for New York Voters

New York Secretary of State 
Department of State, Albany Location:
One Commerce Plaza
99 Washington Ave
Albany, NY 12231-0001

Department of State, New York City Location:
123 William Street
New York, NY 10038-3804

Phone: (518) 473-2492 
Fax: (518) 473-6648 
Web: https://www.dos.ny.gov/

New York Voting Resources

Your vote counts. Take the time to learn how and when to vote.

REGISTER TO VOTE

ELECTION DATES

ABSENTEE BALLOT

POLLING PLACE FINDER

Where Do I Vote?

Check your voter registration status and get polling location information by searching with your first and last name on the New York Board of Elections website.

How to Register in New York

There are several ways to register to vote in New York. This includes registering:

In Person

Visit the county board of elections or go to any New York State agency-based voter registration center.

Over the Phone

Call 1-800-FOR-VOTE and request a voter application over the phone.

At the DMV

Visit the DMV in person to register, or use the DMV website if you already have DMV-issued identification.

By Mail

Add your name to the New York voter direct mailing list to receive a mail application. 

New York Voting Resources

Your vote counts. Take the time to learn how and when to vote.

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Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.

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Protect Your Voting Rights

Contact a qualified attorney if you suspect your rights have been violated.

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