New U.S. Citizens

Registering to Vote

After your naturalization swearing-in ceremony:

  • Carefully read and complete the registration-by-mail form provided.
  • Mail or return the completed registration to the Registrar of Voters Office.

You will receive a notice of your eligibility to vote within a few weeks after your registration is processed.

Important Exception

If you become a citizen after the 15-day registration deadline, you may still be eligible to register to vote before the next election:

  • You must register and vote in person at the Registrar of Voters Office at any time beginning on the 14th day before an election and ending at the close of polls on Election Day.
  • Bring your Certificate of Naturalization dated after the 15-day registration deadline.

Registration Forms

You can register online by going to the California Secretary of State's website. Paper applications are available at our election’s office, any Department of Motor Vehicles field office, many post offices, public libraries, and government offices.

Political Party Preference

California law permits you to register your preference with a political party, or decline to state a party preference.

Prior to each election in which you are eligible to vote, you will receive a County Voter Information Guide which contains information on candidates and measures to be voted on in that election.

  • Tip: Mark your choices in the County Voter Information Guide and take it with you to the polling place to use as a reference.

Volunteer as a Poll / Election Worker

If you are interested in becoming a poll worker, refer to our Poll Worker Portal section to learn more.