Who is not allowed to vote in the US election? Age, residency and citizenship requirements
Here are the requirements to vote and the list of people who will be unable to do so.
It’s almost time for the US election, one of the most important moments this century, with some even calling it the most significant in the history of the country.
As such, being prepared to vote is paramount, and knowing whether or not your are eligible is all part of the process.
The USA government website provides the following guidelines for people WHO CAN VOTE in the 2024 US Presidential election:
Who can vote in the US election?
- Are a U.S. citizen (some areas allow non-citizens to vote in local elections only), including:
- U.S. citizens living outside of the United States.
- U.S. citizens who were born abroad and have never lived in the United States.
- Dual citizens living in the United States or abroad
- Meet your state’s residency requirements
- You can be experiencing homelessness and still meet these requirements.
- Are 18 years old on or before Election Day
- In almost every state, you can register to vote before you turn 18 if you will be 18 by Election Day.
- Some states allow 17-year-olds who will be 18 by Election Day to vote in primaries.
- Are registered to vote by your state’s voter registration deadline. North Dakota does not require voter registration.
However, as well as that, there are also various members of society in the country WHO CANNOT VOTE in the election:
Who cannot vote in the US election?
- Non-citizens, including permanent legal residents, cannot vote in federal, state, and most local elections.
- Some people cannot vote after being convicted of a felony or if they are currently serving time for other types of crimes. Rules are different in each state.
- Some people who have a mental disability may not be able to vote.
- U.S. citizens residing in U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands) cannot vote for president in the general election.
Anyone who has any queries about voter eligibility are reminded to check with their state or local election office for answers.