Every year, millions of Americans don’t vote because they miss a registration deadline, don’t update their registration, or aren’t sure how to register. National Voter Registration Day aims to make sure everyone has the opportunity to vote.

In recognition of National Voter Registration Day on September 17, the Maryland State Board of Elections (SBE) encourages Marylanders to register to vote ahead of the 2024 presidential general election.

Marylanders can register to vote using SBE’s online application page or complete an application in person at their local Board of Elections office. SBE also encourages those already registered to go online and verify that their voter information is accurate and up to date.

The advance registration deadline is October 15; however, Marylanders can also register to vote during Early Voting (Thursday, October 24 through Thursday, October 31) or on Election Day (Tuesday, November 5).

“It’s never too soon to plan to vote in this year’s election, starting with registering. If already registered, check that your voter information is up to date,” said State Administrator Jared DeMarinis.

SBE reminds Marylanders on parole or probation or who have completed their sentences that they are eligible to vote unless convicted of buying or selling votes.

Counties administer and fund elections at the local level, overseeing polling places and coordinating poll workers every two years. Election workers work hard to ensure elections are accurate, safe, and accessible.

National Voter Registration Day was created in 2012 to help address such issues by serving as a nationwide, nonpartisan rallying point to promote voter registration and help eligible voters across the country get #VoteReady.

Visit the Maryland State Board of Elections website for more information.