Office of Elections

Aloha, 

Are you registered to vote? Chances are if you are subscribed to our newsletter, you are! At least we hope so! But chances are that you also know someone that isn’t. 

Help us change that. Hawaii’s elections thrive when more of us participate, so this month, we ask for your help in getting those in your circle registered to vote. Forward this email, send a text, or simply start a conversation. 

We’ve gathered common questions we’ve received through emails, phone calls, and meeting voters out in the community. Here are the most common questions first time voters ask: 

Who is eligible to register to vote? 

You must be a U.S. citizen, Hawaii resident, and at least 16 years old. 

Register to vote at 16 years old? 

Yes, become a futureHIvoter by registering to vote at 16 years old. Teens 16+ are eligible to pre-register to vote, a unique opportunity to Hawaii voters. As a futureHIvoter, you’ll begin receiving your ballot in the mail at 18 years old. 

What’s the quickest way to register? 

Online! With your Hawaii Driver License or Hawaii State ID, get registered in a matter of minutes at elections.hawaii.gov. Don’t have a Hawaii ID? Print and complete a paper Voter Registration Application or pick one up at a post office or library. 

How do I declare my party affiliation? 

You’ll notice that when you register to vote, you are not asked for your political party affiliation. That’s not a mistake. Surprising voters from out-of-state, Hawaii voters do not declare a political party affiliation when registering to vote. When it comes time to vote, you’ll get a ballot with all political parties, and this is when you indicate your political preference. You can learn more about Hawaii’s primary elections on the Voting in Hawaii page. 

Do I need to cancel my registration in my previous state? 

Yes, you can only be registered to vote in one state. When you register to vote here, you’ll need to indicate the former county you lived in. This allows Hawaii election officials to begin the cancelation process. To confirm that your registration has been canceled, it’s best to contact your former elections office directly. 

Do I have to register to vote every year? 

No, you do not need to register to vote before each election. You are however responsible for maintaining a current registration. If your name, residence, or mailing address change between elections, you need to update your voter registration. Election officials rely on your current voter registration to know what ballot to assign you and where to send it. Get in the habit of checking your voter registration at the start of every election year! 

Where do I vote? 

Your ballot comes to you! Hawaii is a vote by mail state, which means that as a registered voter, you’ll automatically receive your ballot in the mail every election. Ballots arrive at least 18 days before Election Day, and you can find those dates on the Election Calendar. 

Will I receive confirmation that I’m registered to vote? 

Yes, you’ll receive confirmation via mail but only in an election year. If you need proof of your voter registration before then, contact your County Elections Division directly and they can produce the proper documentation.