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How do I register to vote in New Jersey?

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

New Jersey expanded access dramatically with automatic registration (2018) and felony re-enfranchisement on release (2020).

1. Eligibility (N.J. Const. art. II; N.J. Stat. § 19:4-1)

  • U.S. citizen.
  • 18 years old by Election Day (pre-register at 17).
  • NJ resident for at least 30 days before the election.
  • Not currently incarcerated for an indictable offense — voting rights restored upon release for those on parole or probation (S2519, effective March 17, 2020).
  • Not adjudicated mentally incompetent.

    • 2. How to Register

  • Online: nj.gov/state/elections (requires NJ DL/ID).
  • Paper: mail to county Commissioner of Registration.
  • Automatic Voter Registration through the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission since 2018.

    • 3. Deadline

  • 21 days before Election Day (N.J. Stat. § 19:31-6.4).
  • No same-day registration.

    • 4. ID Requirements

  • NJ DL/ID or last 4 of SSN at registration.
  • At the polls: ID generally not required for in-person voting; first-time voters who registered by mail without ID number may need to show ID (HAVA).

    • 5. College Students

  • May register at school address — NJ recognizes student residency.

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • Your registration was improperly denied or purged
    • You have a felony conviction with disputed restoration status
    • You were challenged at the polls and your provisional ballot was rejected
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • N.J. Const. art. II
    • N.J. Stat. § 19:4-1
    • N.J. Stat. § 19:31-6.4
    • N.J. S2519 (2019)
    • 52 U.S.C. § 20503

    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.