How do I register to vote in Maryland?

Maryland expanded same-day registration to Election Day polling places in 2020, joining the most accessible registration states.

1. Eligibility (Md. Const. art. I, § 4; Md. Code Elec. Law § 3-102)

U.S. citizen.

16 years old to register; 18 by next general election to vote.

MD resident.

Not currently serving a court-ordered sentence of imprisonment for a felony (parolees and probationers may vote since 2016).

Not under guardianship for mental disability with voting rights removed.

2. How to Register

Online: elections.maryland.gov (requires MD DL/ID).

Paper: mail to local Board of Elections.

Automatic Voter Registration at the MVA since 2019.

Same-Day Registration: at any early voting center OR on Election Day at the polling place (Md. Code Elec. Law § 3-305) with proof of residence.

3. Deadlines

Standard: 21 days before Election Day.

Same-Day: through Election Day, with proof of residence (MD DL, MVA-issued ID, utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government document showing name and address).

4. ID Requirements

MD DL/ID or last 4 of SSN at registration.

At the polls: no photo ID generally required; first-time mail registrants without ID number may need ID under HAVA.

5. College Students

May register at college address; same-day registration ideal for students moving to Maryland.

This is legal information, not legal advice.