Voter Registration in Rhode Island
Voter registration is governed in Rhode Island by state law and the federal National Voter Registration Act (commonly known as "motor voter").
National Voter Registration Act
The National Voter Registration Act Of 1993 Congress enacted the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (also known as the "NVRA" and the "Motor Voter Act"), to enhance voting opportunities for every American. The Act has made it easier for all Americans to register to vote and to maintain their registration.
The NVRA allows the Department of Justice to bring civil actions in federal court to enforce its requirements. The Act also gives the responsibility to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to provide States with guidance on the Act, to develop a national mail voter registration form, and to compile reports on the effectiveness of the Act. An amendment in the Help America Vote Act of 2002 transferred the FEC's responsibilities under the Act to the Election Assistance Commission.
Click here to visit the United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division National Voter Registration Act of 1993
Download Voter Registration Form in Rhode Island
English voter registration form (PDF Document)
http://www.elections.ri.gov/publications/Election_Publications/Voter_Registration/2010_RI_English_VRF_Fillable.pdf
This is a fillable form. Complete the form on your computer, print it, sign it, and mail it to your local Board of Canvassers.
Spanish voter registration form (PDF Document)
http://www.elections.ri.gov/publications/Election_Publications/Voter_Registration/2010_RI_Spanish_VRF_Fillable.pdf
Este formulario se puede llenar en su computadora. Imprime el formulario, firma, y envialo a su Board of Canvassers local.
General Information for Voter Registration in Rhode Island
Qualifications
To register to vote in the State of Rhode Island, an individual must meet the following qualifications:
- Be a United States Citizen
- Reside in Rhode Island
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have not been convicted of a disqualifying felony (or have rights restored)
- Have not been legally declared "mentally incompetent" by a court
Voter registration is also available from your local County Board of Registrars. You may also obtain voter registration services at the following state and local government offices and agencies:
- Driver's licensing office
- County and select municipal public libraries
- Department of Human Resources
- WIC Program, Department of Public Health
- Medicaid Agency
- Department of Rehabilitation Services
The postcard voter registration form is also available at:
- Public 4-year universities
- Select private 4-year universities
- Driver's licensing office
- County and select municipal public libraries
- Department of Human Resources
- WIC Program, Department of Public Health
- Medicaid Agency
- Department of Rehabilitation Services
If you have questions about voter registration in Rhode Island, you may contact us using the information found here. You may also contact the following officials by phone or by mail: