National Voter Registration Day is observed every year on the third Tuesday of September, encouraging eligible citizens to register to vote and take part in the democratic process.
History of National Voter Registration Day
National Voter Registration Day was founded in 2012 as a nonpartisan civic holiday dedicated to one simple goal: making sure eligible voters are registered ahead of elections. The day is coordinated by a broad coalition of organizations, including election officials, nonprofits, and civic groups, all working together to reach unregistered voters through community events, media outreach, and online registration drives.
Since its founding, National Voter Registration Day has helped register hundreds of thousands of voters across the country, becoming one of the largest single-day voter registration efforts in the United States.
How to Celebrate National Voter Registration Day
- Check your voter registration status if you’re unsure whether you’re currently registered
- Register to vote if you haven’t already, either online or in person depending on your state
- Help a family member or friend check their registration status
- Share information about registration deadlines on social media
- Volunteer with a local nonpartisan voter registration drive
Fun Facts About Voter Registration
- Voter registration deadlines and requirements vary significantly by state, with some states allowing same-day registration.
- National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan observance, meaning it does not favor any political party or candidate.
- Many states now offer online voter registration, making the process faster than traditional paper registration.
- Millions of eligible voters in the U.S. are not registered at any given time, which is part of why the day was created.
- National Voter Registration Day has been officially recognized by numerous secretaries of state across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Voter Registration Day?
National Voter Registration Day is observed on the third Tuesday of September each year. In 2026, that falls on September 15th.
Is National Voter Registration Day affiliated with a political party?
No, it is a nonpartisan civic holiday focused solely on encouraging voter registration, regardless of political affiliation.
How do I check my voter registration status?
Most states offer an online voter registration lookup tool through their Secretary of State or election office website.
What if I miss National Voter Registration Day?
You can still register to vote at any time before your state’s registration deadline for an upcoming election; the day is simply a focused reminder, not the only opportunity to register.