How do I register to vote in Texas?

Texas voter registration is paper-based and requires strict advance planning — the state has not adopted online registration despite repeated legislative efforts.

1. Eligibility (Tex. Elec. Code § 11.002)

U.S. citizen.

18 years old by Election Day (may register at 17 years, 10 months).

Resident of the Texas county where you register.

Not finally convicted of a felony, unless sentence (including parole/probation) is fully discharged.

Not declared mentally incompetent by a court.

2. How to Register

Paper application only — no online registration system exists.

Download from votetexas.gov, request by phone, or pick up at a county voter registrar, library, or post office.

Submit by mail (postmarked by deadline) or in person to your county Voter Registrar.

Volunteer Deputy Registrars (VDRs) can collect applications at events — see Tex. Elec. Code § 13.031.

3. Deadline

30 days before Election Day (Tex. Elec. Code § 13.143) — one of the strictest in the U.S.

No same-day or grace-period registration.

4. ID Requirements

Provide Texas DL number, last 4 of SSN, or check the "none" box if you have neither.

At the polls: Texas enforces strict photo ID (Tex. Elec. Code § 63.001) — DL, election ID certificate, military ID, passport, or handgun license. Alternatives (utility bill, bank statement) available with a Reasonable Impediment Declaration.

5. College Students

May register at school address if it is their residence in fact.

This is legal information, not legal advice.