How To Register To Vote For The Nov. 6 Midterm Election

COOK COUNTY, IL -- Despite some misleading reports saying that the window for voter registration was closed, there are still plenty of opportunities for suburban Cook County and Chicago residents to register to vote ahead of the Nov. 6 election. Recent changes in the law now allow voters to register to vote between now the general election, including registering and voting on Election Day itself.

Online Registration

The easiest way to register is online at the Illinois State Board of Elections website. Online registration is open until Sunday, Oct. 21 and is available to any Illinois citizen who has a driver’s license or state-issued identification.

‘Grace Period’ Registration

So-called “grace period” registration is available at all Cook County and City of Chicago early voting sites until Nov. 5. New voters can register and vote in-person on the same day at each site as long as they bring two forms of identification.

A full list of early voting sites for Cook County suburban residents is available on the county clerk’s website. A list of early voting sites for Chicago residents is available on the Chicago Board of Elections website.
Both websites offer information about what forms of identification are accepted.

Same-Day Registration

Eligible voters can register to vote in-person on Election Day. Same-day registration is only possible at a voter’s assigned local polling place. The voter must present two forms of identification to participate in same-day registration, one of which must show a current address.
Suburban residents can find their assigned polling location by entering their home address in a search bar on the Cook County Clerk’s website as well as a sample ballot. Chicago residents can find their assigned polling place on the Chicago Board of Elections website.

~ Image via Shutterstock