Voter Registration in Alaska
The steps to register to vote in Alaska can be easily completed by eligible applicants. Voters are able to select representatives on the local, state and federal levels. Furthermore, besides electing essential officials, voters help approve or disapprove ballot measures related to important social and political issues. Residents can submit a voter registration request form to the AK Division of Elections to begin exercising their rights in the state. However, before receiving a voter registration card, applicants should understand the associated rules and procedures.
Specific information and documents must be provided for residents to prove eligibility in the state. Once a card is obtained, Alaska voters must ensure they follow all necessary legal requirements to continue casting ballots in elections. In certain situations, some groups are able to use absentee and early voting privileges. Continue reading to discover each part of the registration process and additional important information for voters.
Who can register to vote in Alaska?
To register to vote in Alaska, applicants must first meet eligibility standards. Residents who fail to match these requirements are denied the ability to vote. Understanding the AK voter registration rules will help you find out whether you are eligible before submitting an application. To vote in the state, each of the following criteria applies:
- You must be a U.S. citizen
- You must be an Alaska resident
- You must be age 18 or within 90 days of your 18th birthday
- You cannot be convicted of a disqualifying felony for a crime involving moral turpitude
- You cannot be a registered voter in another state
- You cannot be declared mentally incompetent by a court
Residents can learn how to register to vote when these eligibility requirements are met. If your name has changed, you should update this information on your AK drivers license or ID before registering to vote.
Alaska Voter Registration Deadline
An Alaska voter registration application or information update must be submitted at least 30 days before an election. Late requests result in the resident being unable to vote on an upcoming ballot.
How to Register to Vote in Alaska
The AK voter registration process is available via a variety of methods. Similar to registering your vehicle in Alaska, residents must prove that they meet state eligibility requirements to apply. Disclosure of personal details and supporting documents is necessary when applying for voting rights. For example, your name, date of birth, address, ID number or Social Security Number (SSN) and more must be provided.
The required application can be submitted through the online portal, in person or by mail, fax or email. This form is also used to change voter registration information, when necessary. A voter request can be completed through the online license and state identification website. Applicants should simply enter the required information and provide necessary documents for verification. Once submitted, the form will be evaluated by the state.
Residents can also turn in a paper application using mail, fax or email. Documents proving residency and citizenship should be provided, such as a valid state license, AK ID card or birth certificate. This information can be sent to the closest regional Division of Elections office. An Alaska voter registration will be sent by mail to approved applicants.
Lastly, a state voting application can be turned in personally at a Division of Elections office or voter registration agency. Verification documents must be provided during the visit. When approved, an official card is sent by mail to new voters.
Early Voting in Alaska
Early voting is available to all residents with a valid AK voter registration card who meet eligibility requirements. Generally, early ballots can be cast in person up to 15 days before an election. However, the specific dates and times a site is open in advance vary by location. Only certain areas offer early voting services in Alaska. Voters in the following places can take advantage of casting an early ballot:
- Juneau
- Soldotna
- Anchorage
- Fairbanks
- Nome
- Wasilla
Alaska Voter Registration for Active Duty Military and Out-of-State Residents
Absentee registration ballots are available for certain groups, such as military, out-of-state and overseas residents. These voters should use the normal absentee process to cast votes.
For those overseas or serving in the military, ballots are sent out 45 days before an election. Forms can be obtained by mail, online or fax. On the application, active service members should select the military designation.
Alaska Voter Registration for Absentee Voting
Voters who meet the requirements for AK absentee voting are unable to make it to the polls on a regular election day. These groups include residents in the military, living overseas or working and traveling remotely. Other valid reasons for being an absentee voter in Alaska include having an illness, disability and more.
In order to vote this way, an absentee application must be submitted in advance via mail, fax or email. Voters will receive an absentee ballot either 45 or 25 days before a normal election. The number of days varies, depending on the reason for applicants being out of the local area. To register to vote, an absentee ballot must be dated or received 30 days before an election. To submit a vote, an absentee ballot should be received by the state no less than 10 days before election day.
Voter Registration Cards in Alaska
You may be wondering, “am I registered to vote in Alaska?” after submitting an initial application. A voter registration card is granted to residents who meet eligibility requirements to prove their voting status.
On this card, information such as the name, address and voting precinct of an applicant is listed. This information is important for voters to know where to go to legally cast a ballot.
How to Change Your Voter Registration in Alaska
Resubmitting a regular voting application can change the information on a registration. Any relevant Alaska voter registration change of address, name or party affiliation should be indicated on the form. Once submitted and approved, a new card will be sent from the AK Division of Elections.
Address changes are especially important because your residence on file determines what voting precinct you should use. When asking, “Where do I vote?” your address will determine the answer.
How to Replace a Lost Alaska Voter Registration Card
The method to change a voter registration address in Alaska is the same way to obtain a replacement voting ID card. Residents should simply resubmit an application via any of the available options. Any changes or updates to your address, name or party affiliation can also be included on the form.