Back to Questions
civil-rightsGA

How do I register to vote in Georgia?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-17

Georgia voter registration is administered by the Secretary of State and county registrars and is subject to SB 202 (Election Integrity Act of 2021).

1. Eligibility (Ga. Const. art. II, § I; O.C.G.A. § 21-2-216)

  • U.S. citizen.
  • 18 years old by Election Day (pre-register at 17½).
  • GA resident in the county listed.
  • Not currently serving a sentence for a felony involving moral turpitude (includes prison, probation, parole, and unpaid restitution).
  • Not adjudicated mentally incompetent without rights restored.
  • 2. How to Register

  • Online: registertovote.sos.ga.gov (requires Georgia DL/ID).
  • Paper: mail to county registrar or Secretary of State.
  • In person: DDS (driver license), Board of Registrars, NVRA agencies, recruitment offices.
  • 3. Deadline

  • Fifth Monday preceding the election (O.C.G.A. § 21-2-224) — typically 29 days before Election Day.
  • No same-day registration.
  • 4. ID Requirements

  • GA DL/ID or last 4 of SSN at registration.
  • At the polls: photo ID required (O.C.G.A. § 21-2-417) — GA DL, state ID, US passport, military ID, tribal ID, government employee ID. Free ID cards available from DDS.
  • 5. College Students

  • May register at college address if it's their residence; SB 202 tightened drop-box rules but did not change student residency.
  • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Your registration was improperly denied or purged (especially under SB 202 list maintenance)
    • You have a felony conviction with disputed restoration status
    • You were challenged at the polls and your provisional ballot was rejected
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Ga. Const. art. II, § I
    • O.C.G.A. § 21-2-216
    • O.C.G.A. § 21-2-224
    • O.C.G.A. § 21-2-417
    • Ga. SB 202 (2021)

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.