With the primaries coming up next month, it’s important to note that today, July 22, is the deadline to register to vote. This means that you’ll want to make sure your voter registration is in good standing or that you’re registered with the right party before heading to the polls.
This year’s primary election is set for August 20, 11 weeks before the general election. If you’d like to request a vote-by-mail ballot, August 8 is the deadline. Read on for what you need to know about the upcoming election and what you’ll need to register.
How to check if you’re registered to vote in Florida
In order to check your voter registration status, visit the Florida Online Voter Registration System and click on the “Am I Already Registered?” button. Fill out your information and you’ll see your registration status, which will either say active or inactive.
If you are not registered, click on “Register or Update” and submit your information. You’ll need your Florida driver’s license or ID card, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
How to change your political party
When clicking “Register or Update” on registertovoteflorida.gov, just select the “record update/change option” and you can follow the steps to change your political party affiliation.
How to request a vote-by-mail ballot
To request a new vote-by-mail ballot, head to your local Supervisor of Elections website, where you can either request online or find the form you need to print and mail in. You can also visit your local Supervisor of Elections office to put in your request. Find your local office here.
How do the primaries work in Florida?
Because Florida is a closed primary state, this means people can only vote for candidates in their affiliated party. This rules out independent voters, or NPA (no party affiliation) voters, who are unable to vote for any partisan candidates. This is different from the general election, where all registered voters — regardless of party — get to choose any candidate of their choosing.
When is the deadline to register to vote in the general election?
The 2024 general election will be held on Tuesday, November 5. The deadline to register for the general election in Florida is October 7, and the deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot is October 24.