Vote AK

Voter Registration Guide

Welcome to the Alaska Guide to Voter Registration

At Vote AK, we strive to provide all Alaskans with straightforward information about Alaska voting rules, regulations, and procedures. Are you new in town, a new voter, or looking for ways to improve your voting process in Alaska? Our detailed Voter Registration Guide is here to help you register to vote and make your voice heard. Keep reading to view steps, deadlines, eligibility requirements, and trusted information to get prepared for Alaska’s next election.

Why Register to Vote in Alaska?

Voting is a right and a privilege of every citizen. Registering to vote allows you to make your voice heard in all local, state, and federal elections. When you are registered to vote in Alaska, you can also vote on ballot propositions and local referenda affecting life in your community. No matter if you are a lifelong Alaskan or are new to this great state, registering to vote and making your voice heard is the first step toward civic engagement and affecting positive change in areas important to you and your loved ones.

Who Can Register to Vote and Keep Your Registration Up to Date?

The requirements to register to vote in the state of Alaska are as follows:

  • You are a United States citizen.
  • You are at least 18 years old or will be 18 years old by the next general election day.
  • You are a resident of the state of Alaska.
  • You are not a convicted felon (unless your voting rights have been restored).
  • You are not registered to vote in another state (unless you make Alaska your home state).

If you have questions about your rights under these requirements, such as your legal status or prior convictions, Vote AK suggests that you contact the Alaska Division of Elections or consult an experienced attorney.

How to Register: Step by Step

There are several ways to register to vote in Alaska. Use the one that is most convenient for you.

  • Online
    • Go to the Alaska Division of Elections Online Voter Registration page.
    • You will need an Alaska driver’s license or state I.D.
    • Fill in the fields of the form and submit it securely.
  • Through the Mail
    • Access the Alaska Voter Registration Application at the Division of Elections website. Single copies are also available in public libraries, DMV offices, and other government buildings across the state.
    • Fill out the form with correct information.
    • Mail the form to: Alaska Division of Elections, PO Box 110017, Juneau, AK 99811-0017
  • Through the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) Application
    • You can choose to register to vote or update your voter registration information when you file for your PFD.
  • In Person
    • You can visit any of the Division of Elections regional offices, city or borough clerk’s office, DMV office, or during a voter registration drive.
    • Bring an ID such as an Alaska driver’s license, state I.D., passport, or birth certificate.

Regardless of how you choose to register to vote, it’s important that all information submitted is complete and accurate to ensure the timely processing of your application.

Registration Deadlines

In order to vote in the next elections, you need to register on time. In Alaska, voters must register or update information at least 30 days before an election to be eligible to vote in that election. For a statewide primary or general election on November 5, 2024, register or update by October 6, 2024. Municipal and local election deadlines vary, so be sure to check the Division of Elections calendar page or Election Dates and Deadlines for the most current information. We encourage voters to register or update information as soon as possible to give yourself the best chance of being able to vote.

Identification and Documentation

When registering to vote in Alaska, you need to provide identification to prove who you are and that you live where you say you do. Types of acceptable identification include:

  • An Alaska driver’s license or state identification card
  • A passport
  • A birth certificate
  • A military identification card
  • A tribal identification card
  • Some other form of government-issued identification with your name and current residency

For online registration, you must have an Alaska driver’s license or state identification card. You will not be able to register electronically if you do not have one of these. If you don’t have an Alaska driver’s license or state identification card, you must register using a paper application and supply other forms of acceptable identification.

Updating Your Voter Registration

You need to keep your voter registration information up to date. You must update your voter registration if you:

  • Change your residence within Alaska
  • Change your name
  • Desire to have your party affiliation changed
  • Change your citizenship status

You may update your registration online, by mail, or in person as described above. Make sure you make your updates at least 30 days before an election so that they’re processed on time.

Special Voter Considerations in Alaska

  • Mobile Registration Team and Scheduled Visits to Rural and Remote Villages: Vote AK’s resource library lists communities with scheduled visits this year. Check the library, or call your local Division of Elections office for the current schedule.
  • Voting from the Armed Services and Overseas: Federal and state online systems are available for Alaska residents in the military or living overseas to use in registering to vote and voting absentee. For more information, see Absentee Voting Information.
  • Voters with Disabilities: Every method of registration and polling place is required to be accessible. Help is available if you require assistance in registering and voting.
  • Native Alaskan Language Assistance: Election materials and language help are provided in several native languages. Ask for translated registration forms for your native language, or ask for interpretation help when registering or voting.

What Happens Post-Registration?

Upon successful registration, a voter registration card will be mailed to you with your information and polling location. Processing takes about 2-4 weeks. If you do not receive a card, or need to check on your status, you can do so online via the Alaska Division of Elections’ voter portal, or visit Vote AK’s resource library for advice and guidance. Problems of a factual nature should be addressed by calling your regional elections office.

Complete instructions and information are available in the APA PDF file, Vote By Mail for Even Year Ballots. Registration requirements: You can register by mail, online, or in person at any regional or election office.

Common Questions

  • Can I register if I will be 18 years old by election day?
    Yes! You may register if you will be 18 years of age by election day.
  • If I have a felony conviction, can I register?
    That depends on whether your voting rights have been restored. In most cases, your voting rights are restored when you complete your sentence, including any probation or parole.
  • Can I register and vote absentee if I live out of state?
    Yes, as long as you still claim Alaska residence, you may register and vote absentee.
  • What if I made a mistake on my registration?
    Submit a new application to correct the error. Only the last valid application will be honored.

How to Get Help & More Resources

Vote AK is here to help make this process as seamless as possible. If you have a question or issue:

  • Check out our articles & resources library for step by step instructions
  • Check our legal article for information specific to your rights and responsibilities
  • Contact your local Division of Elections office for official assistance
  • Contact an attorney for any complicated legal issues

Vote AK contacts:

Mail:200 W 57th St Fl 42, New York NY 10019
Phone:(646) 507-8852
E-mail:[email protected]
Website:https://vote-ak.com/

Take the Next Step: Start Registration and Make Your Vote Count

Every election is your chance as an Alaskan and Katmai resident to have a voice in how the future of our state and region turns out. By registering to vote, you can make sure these opinions and priorities are heard. Vote AK can help you every step of the way, from registration to casting your ballot. We hope every Alaskan will make use of our free, all-encompassing resources to become informed, empowered voters. Register, be informed, then cast your vote for a better future in Alaska, and Katmai.