Show me how to: Register to vote

Maggie Toulouse Oliver, Bernalillo County Clerk, said questions about party affiliation or one’s desire to vote shouldn’t stop anyone from registering to vote. Oliver sat down with the Daily Lobo to tell students how to register to vote.

Step 1: Choose registration method

Oliver said there are currently a few options for registering online. Rockthevote.com is a site that allows registrants to fill out a Federal Voter Registration form, which is good in any
state.

The form must be printed out and sent to the County Clerk’s office to be official, she said. Oliver said the Bernalillo Country
Clerk’s office will also mail out voter registration forms on request. Call 505- 468-1291 to request a form.

Another way to register is through third party voter registration agents, who solicit voter registration on university campuses and public events.Another option is to physically go down to the County Clerk’s office or any government office.

Step 2: Get your identification together

Depending on how and where one registers, identification requirements vary. Oliver said online registration simply requires a Social Security number, but mail-in forms require an attached copy of a government-issued ID or photo ID. Oliver said a school ID is acceptable. Those who choose to register in person don’t need photo identification, but should bring a Social Security card or Social Security number.

Step 3: Wait and be patient

After registering, a voter identification card will arrive in the mail, Oliver said. It should arrive within a week of registering. Registering at peak times, a few weeks before an election, can delay a card’s delivery up to three weeks, Oliver said.

Step 4: Vote

This year, vote centers across Bernalillo County will allow voters to vote at any center in the county, no matter what their precinct. Students and faculty can vote early or on Election Day in between classes at the SUB.

For more information on voter registration, voting absentee, or updating your information call 505-468-1291, visit bernco.gov/clerk/ or visit their office at One Civic Plaza N.W. on the 6th floor from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.