Esther CarmichaelVoting can seem like a frightening, difficult, and extended process, but it’s actually not that hard.
Voting is our voice as Americans, letting us choose our representatives and shape public policy, but the process can feel intimidating. From registering to returning your ballot, these easy-to-follow steps will help prepare you to make your voice heard on Nov. 3rd.
Step 1: You cannot vote if you aren’t registered.
First, check your registration status at voterstatus.sos.ca.gov to ensure your registration is still valid.
If you missed California’s regular registration deadline, you can still register and vote through the state's same-day registration process. Go to your county elections office or a designated voting location for help registering and casting your ballot. It will be counted as soon as your eligibility is verified.
To register in California, you must be a U.S. citizen and a California resident, and at least 18 years old on Election Day. If your home is in a different county but you live on campus, you can register using your college residence or your family’s home address.
Visit RegisterToVote.ca.gov for more information and instructions on registering.
Step 2: Educate yourself on who and what you’re voting for. Before you fill out your ballot, learn about the candidates and various ballot measures. It’s your voice: Make sure your vote reflects what you care about. Start with your official voter information guide, or consult unbiased online resources like ballotpedia.org to get background on candidates and issues on the ballot.
Step 3: Who and what are you voting for? There are some races that everyone votes on, like the governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, etc. Then there are local county and city races that vary depending on where you live.
Local candidates often receive less media coverage than candidates in statewide races, which can make researching them more difficult. Their decisions affect your community, so take time to learn about their positions and who would best represent you.
Finally, state propositions and ballot measures can often seem less important, but they can often enact real change quickly and affect laws, taxes, and public services, so be sure to take the time to read the proposals and the arguments for and against them.
Step 4: What to do with your ballot. Once you have completed your ballot, place it in the envelope provided, seal it, and sign where indicated.
Now you have some options. Mail-in ballots have to be postmarked by Nov. 3 and received by Nov. 10 to be counted. If you aren’t sure it will get postmarked, you can go to your local post office and request a manual postmark.
If you want to skip the post office, you can also just drop off your ballot at any official ballot drop box, polling place, voting center, or county elections office by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3. For information on San Bernardino County drop boxes, visit the county website.
If you want the full voting experience, you can vote in person. This is helpful if you want assistance in filling out your ballot, as there are election workers on hand who can help you with the process. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Nov. 3.
Step 5: You’ve done your part. Voting is important–using our voice shapes our country, elects people who represent us, and creates the laws we live by. Once you’ve cast your ballot, take a minute to appreciate that you participated.
Voting is important—using our voice shapes our country, elects people who represent us, and creates the laws we live by. Once you’ve cast your ballot, take a minute to appreciate that you participated.
You don’t have to wait till the next Election Day to be involved. Keep following local issues, hold your representative accountable, stay informed, and make your voice be heard.
FAQ
Q: Do I have to re-register to vote every year?
A: Nope! You only have to re-register to vote if you change your address, your name, or your political party preference!
Q: Do I have to have a driver’s license to vote?
A: Nope! You can use the last four digits of your Social Security number instead of your Driver’s License number!
Q: Where can I vote on election day?
A: https://elections.sbcounty.gov/voting/ppl/2026/1103/ is a tool you can use to find a polling place!
