It’s time! Early voting in Minnesota starts September 20. Here’s what to know before you head to the polls.

How to Register to Vote

Minnesota has many convenient and easy ways to register to vote. You can register online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website. The deadline to register online is October 15 (3 weeks before Election Day). All you need is a valid identification method, such as a Minnesota driver’s license, the last four digits of your social security number, and an email address. The website will walk you through step-by-step instructions to ensure that you are ready to go this election.

You can also register using a paper form. Download it from the Minnesota Secretary of State website, fill it out, and bring it to your local elections office. Another option is to register in person at your polling place the day you vote. You can register in person even if you are voting early. If you are unsure of your registration status, you can find it here.

Be sure to re-register if your name or address changes!

How to Vote Early

In Minnesota, you can vote early in person or by mail. Early voting allows you to vote when it works for you. All voters can cast an absentee ballot at your county elections office. Before going to vote, be sure to check the hours of your specific polling place. If you’d like to vote early via mail, you can apply for an absentee ballot here. Return your ballot in plenty of time to ensure your vote will be counted on Election Day.

New Minnesota Voting Laws

In 2023, the Minnesota State Legislature passed Automatic Voter Registration. This law allows eligible Minnesotans to update their registration or register to vote when applying for or renewing a Minnesota driver’s license, instructional permit, or state identification card. You can also vote if you have been convicted of a felony, but are not incarcerated. 

Additionally, there are expanded protections on being absent from work to vote and extended deadlines for absentee voting to make the voting process as smooth as possible. As of June 1, 2024, Minnesota enacted the ability to request to be on a permanent absentee list, allowed descriptive information to help someone determine their precinct, and updated the process of student voting on Minnesota college campuses. You can find more information on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.

What You Can Do

2024 is a crucial election year. Minnesotans must fight for the freedoms we value. Check out who is on your ballot using our voter guide. If you have any questions, visit the Minnesota Secretary of State Website. Be sure to have a plan for how you will vote!