With midterm primary elections approaching, El Pasoans who want their voices heard and counted should not wait until the last minute to register to vote, especially by mail.
That’s because last month, the U.S. Postal Service advised that mail will not always be postmarked on the same day it’s dropped off. Instead, postmarks will be applied when mail reaches a processing facility, which could be later than the day it’s placed in a mailbox. That means election-related mail sent at the last minute could miss critical deadlines, even if it’s mailed on time.
To avoid problems, voters are encouraged to mail voter registration applications as early as possible. Another option is to bring election mail directly to a post office and request a manual postmark, which can provide added assurance that it meets deadline requirements.
Mailed applications must be postmarked by Monday, Feb. 2, to be eligible to vote in the March 3 primary elections. Early voting is Feb. 17-27.
You can also submit a paper voter registration application in person to the El Paso County Elections Department.
Here’s what to know about voter registration in Texas ahead of the March primaries:
Registering to vote for the first time?
To register to vote in Texas, you must be a citizen of the United States and be 18 years old by Election Day. All it takes is to complete an application and return it to the county elections office.
If you’ve already registered and haven’t changed address, you don’t have to do anything else – you remain registered.
What information do I need to register to vote?
You’ll be asked to provide a Texas driver’s license number or personal identification number issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. If you don’t have either, you can provide the last four digits of your social security number. (If you don’t have a Social Security number, you must check the box stating you don’t have this information).
How do I register to vote?
You must complete a paper application and return it to the El Paso County Elections Department at least 30 days before the next election date – Monday, Feb. 2, for the 2026 primaries.
Where can I find a voter registration application?
You can download a printable PDF application directly from the Elections Department website. The application is postage paid, self-addressed and ready to mail.
Applications can also be found at any U.S. Post Office branch, the Department of Public Safety, El Paso Public Libraries, Texas Health and Human Services Commission offices and local high schools. You can also fill out and print the application through the Texas Secretary of State, or request one be mailed to you.
In-person applications are also available at the El Paso County Elections Department, 500 E. San Antonio Ave., Suite 315, inside the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse. You can fax your application to 915-546-2220.
Applications are NOT accepted via email.
Can I register to vote online?
The only way to register to vote online is if you’re renewing your existing Texas driver’s license or state ID online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website. You’ll be given an option to register to vote as you renew or replace your license or ID online.
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Do I have to register to vote for every election?
No. Once you register, you remain registered.
However, you must update your registration if you change your name or have a change of address. You can make those updates online or at the county elections office, 500 E. San Antonio Ave., Suite 314.
Where can I check if I’m already registered to vote?
You can check here by entering your name and date of birth or your voter ID number. There you can also find your voting history, sample ballot and Election Day voting sites.
Where do I register to vote if I’m away at college?
College students can choose whether to claim their residence in their home county or the county where their university is located. You canregister to vote in either. (If you’re registered to vote in El Paso County but are attending school elsewhere, you can cast an absentee ballot).
Can I register to vote if I have a criminal record?
You cannot register to vote if you’ve been convicted of a felony and are serving a sentence or are on parole or probation. You can register to vote if you have a felony conviction but have completed all your punishment or received a pardon.
What happens after I register?
You’ll receive a voter registration certificate within 30 days. The certificate contains your voter ID number, as well as the district and precinct numbers for the elected offices within your voting area.
How soon can I vote after I register?
Your voter registration will become effective 30 days after it is received or on your 18th birthday, whichever is later. Your registration must be effective on or before an Election Day in order to vote in that election.
The post How to register to vote in Texas for March 3 primary elections appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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