Tool #1: List of commonly asked questions about registration to vote and their answers
How do I register if I am homeless? All you need to do is name a place where you "live" --a shelter, train or bus station, park, doorway, etc. --and a mailing address (for example, a soup kitchen or a relative who would be willing to accept mail for you).
How do I know if I am a U.S. citizen? You are a citizen if you were born in the continental United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. You can also become a citizen through naturalization. Holders of green cards are not eligible to vote.
If I register, am I permanently registered? Yes, unless you move or change your name. Even if you move to a different apartment within the same building you must re-register to vote. As of January 1, 1995, federal and state laws prohibit registered voters from being removed from the rolls for not voting.
If I vote in a party's primary election, do I have to vote for that party in the general election? No. In the general election (no matter what party you chose to enroll in), you have the right to vote for the candidate of any party--or even write in your own candidate.
Can I vote absentee? Generally, all U.S. citizens 18 years or older who will be residing outside the United States during an election period are eligible to vote absentee in any election for Federal office. In addition, all members of the Armed Forces, members of the Merchant Marine, and both groups' family members, who are U.S. citizens, may vote absentee in state and local elections.
The following questions have different answers depending on where you live. Check with local election officials for their answers.
- How will I know if I'm registered?
- Where do I vote?
- How do I get an absentee ballot?
- Do I need an I.D. card to vote?
- Can I register to vote at age 17 if I will be 18 on election day?
- Do I have to choose a political party when I register?
The above material was adapted from work done by Human SERVE.
Tool #2: Form for names and addresses
When running a registration drive, it's a good idea to keep a list of people who have registered, in order to be sure they have received their registration material and/or as part of a GOTV campaign. Use the form below to record names and addresses.
Names and Addresses of Newly Registered Voters
| Name | Address | Phone Number | Already Contacted? |
Tool #3: Get-Out-The-Vote Phone Bank
Adopt this for you (partisan) GOTV efforts. Thanks to Anastasia Nagy for allowing the use of this Tool.
Get-Out-the-Vote Phone Bank
[Ask for the name on the card.]
Hello, Mr./Ms. ____________________. My name is ____________, and I am a friend of (insert candidate's name), who is running for City Council in your district.
(Candidate's name) asked me to call you today because her race is very close. She wants to be sure that her supporters get to the polls this Tuesday.
Do you need a ride to your polling place?
If yes, say:
Someone will contact you to set up a time to pick you up. I know (candidate's name) will appreciate your support!
If no, then say:
Don't forget that the polls are open until 7 p.m. Tuesday evening, and remember to go vote! I know (candidate's name) will appreciate your support!
[Politely terminate call.]