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Voter Information

Texas Voter Registration: Step-by-Step

Deadlines, ID requirements, address changes, and how to check your registration status online — everything a first-time voter needs.

RegistrationTexasFirst-Time Voters

Registration Deadlines


  • By mail or in person: 30 days before Election Day
  • Online (via DPS): 30 days before Election Day
  • 2026 General Election deadline: October 5, 2026

    • Step-by-Step Checklist


    Step 1 — Confirm eligibility

  • U.S. citizen
  • Texas resident
  • 18+ on Election Day (17-year-olds may register if they turn 18 by Election Day)
  • Not convicted of a felony (or have completed sentence/probation)
  • Not declared mentally incapacitated by a court

    • Step 2 — Register

  • Complete Form VR-2 (available at county clerk's office, DPS, or libraries)
  • Or register online at [TXsecofstate.state.tx.us](https://www.sos.texas.gov) if you have a Texas DL/ID

    • Step 3 — Verify your registration

  • Check status at [VoteTexas.gov](https://www.votetexas.gov)
  • Your Voter Registration Certificate arrives by mail within 30 days

    • Step 4 — Update if you move

  • Moving within Texas? Re-register with your new address
  • Moving to a new county? Must re-register in the new county

    • Check Your Status


    Visit VoteTexas.gov → "Am I Registered?" → Enter your name, DOB, and county.


    Questions?


    Ellis County Elections Office

    (972) 825-5195 | 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165

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